Looking for ways to inspire and motivate employees? Research by workplace engagement specialist Best Companies has found that listening to what employees have to say is the best place to start.
And gaining employee engagement can reap the reward of winning the war for talent as 85 per cent of engaged employees would ‘strongly recommend’ working for the company to others and are more likely to remain with their employer.
The research from Best Companies – which compiles the annual Sunday Times list of best companies to work for – covered more than 100,00 employees in 434 organisations.
Pete Bradon, head of research at Best Companies said: “It appears that employees indirectly reward employers who they believe treat them well by expressing their pride in working for the organisation.”
The research revealed a number of tips for organisations looking to improve employee engagement:
- Earn respect – employees expect their senior management teams to demonstrate exceptional leadership skills
- Listen and learn – it may sound obvious but if you want to get employees on board managers need to listen rather than just tell them what to do
- Value contributions – if you’re listening then you will also pick up on feelings: it’s difficult for anyone to remain motivated if they feel they’re being ignored or belittled
- Remember to give positive feedback – a simple thank you works wonders
- Keep learning – the chance to take part in training and development keeps employees motivated
- Keep an eye on team and inter-departmental relationships, a little bit of competition is healthy but many employees feel that departments and teams don’t work well together: try to make sure that departments interact to avoid the ‘silo’ mentality
- Be genuine in trying to help your employees – they’ll pick up on it
- People before profit – success is important but 21st century employees are looking for more.
