Employee Engagement has become a large focus for companies striving to keep turnover low, productivity high and attract a more robust, talented staff. But studies have shown that this is not an easy thing to accomplish—people are complex and not everything works for everyone. But with that said, there are some tactics that seem to be more effective than others. See if any of the following tips change things for the better:
Accentuate Your Social Value
More today than ever, people want to work for a company that they can feel good about. Many of your employees, whether they express it or not, are looking to be part of a business that is not just handing them a paycheck. They would like to feel that every day their work, in some way, is inherently good for their community. The easiest way to do that is to make sure that they hear a clear, focused message from you that emphasizes how your business helps others or somehow makes the world a better place. That kind of attitude will only increase the enthusiasm around the office and the work that everyone is doing.
Apply Some Democracy
A business is not a country, and therefore many, often tough, decisions must be made by those in more managerial positions. As we know, what is popular is not always right. But large and growing companies often find they are dealing with a diverse workforce where some traditional ideas are no longer practical for a majority of employees. A successful company is one that knows which way the wind is blowing and when flexibility will benefit its staff.
Promote a Goal-Focused Environment
The simplest way to engage someone is to make them feel that they have something to work towards. No one wants to feel that they are forever pushing a boulder up a hill, or that there is nothing at the end of the tunnel. An employee who shows up to work with a goal in mind is far less likely to get distracted, listless and consider what other opportunities can be pursued. And the added benefit of goals is that when an employee succeeds in a task, and receives praise, they are incredibly motivated to start on a new one.
Work on Employer Engagement
Both consultants and employee surveys can contribute a great deal toward figuring out the secrets to employee engagement. But an easier path may be to reassess how you interact with your employees and if they see that you are engaged with them. Managers and bosses can sometimes get so focused on their own decision-making and upper-level tasks that they begin to put distance between themselves and the rest of the staff. This may happen unconsciously, but can wind up being a massive problem. If you are not engaged with your employees, they may feel like there is no reason to be there. Pull yourself out of the bubble for a couple weeks and show them that you are invested in their work and their happiness.