An engaged employee is someone who will go that extra mile for your company.
Companies with high employee engagement levels grow on average 4.5 times faster than those with low levels, according to a 2010 study by Hays. Engaged employees means lower staff turnover & higher productivity.
However, engagement takes work – here are some top tips to help you achieve an engaged workforce:
1. Show appreciation
If an employee has done well, let them know you know it. A simple thank you goes a long way to increasing engagement.
2. Give feedback
Managers giving little or no feedback to their workers fail to engage 98% of them, according to a 2009 study by Gallup. Let employees know how they are doing & what they can do to improve. Set goals together.
3. Reward good work
Have exciting rewards on offer to give employees something tangible to work towards.
4. Create an engaging atmosphere
An open door policy creates an approachable feel to the office, where employees feel comfortable. Ensure management have a physical presence in the office – not solely via email.
5. Involve employees
Involving them in company decisions will make them feel part of the organisation & give them a sense of ownership of their success.
6. Keep them up to date
Let them know about any changes in the company & give them access to information.
7. Encourage suggestions & input
Let them know their opinions count…. they probably have some really great ideas which will benefit the company too.
8. Link employee objectives to overall company goals
Ensure they know how they are contributing to the company’s vision.
9. Encourage development
Offer training. This will show employees that you are willing to invest in them, as well as leaving you with an engaged & skilled workforce. Some 71% of European employees stated that improving their skills at work would encourage them to put in more discretionary effort, according to a survey by Towers Perrin 2006.
10. Use their talents
Find out what talents they have or want to have. Use these when delegating projects to ensure they are using their talents & developing in the right areas.
John Sylvester is a divisional managing director at performance improvement marketing services agency, P&MM.
