Employee engagement is a cornerstone of having a thriving business. When it comes down to it, having employees who both enjoy working with you and are passionate about your organisation is make-or-break for the company. That’s the ideal outcome, and the end goal for employee engagement.
There’s numerous studies on the benefits of an engaged workforce; statistics show there’s increased productivity, reduced turnover, and higher profitability when employees care about their workplace.
So, if you’re going to begin yours and your business’s journey into engaging your employees, here are the top five tips to get started.
1. Values and Belonging (identify with the values and ensure they’re reflected in the workplace)
Having explicit workplace values and ensuring they’re a part of the culture is the best place to start. Every employee should know what the values of the business are, and how you fulfill them in both work and play. Establishing a sense of belonging is vital for employee engagement, and having a code will help them do so.
2. Office Environment
The workplace plays a huge impact on how employees engage. If it’s cluttered, stuffy, freezing, and everyone’s packed in like sardines, no one’s going to be excited about another day at work. Having a physically appealing environment does wonders in your business being appealing to employees, and making them want to work with you. Spruce up the work environment with vibrant colours, a little horticulture, and adequate lighting. Work may be mundane, but your office doesn’t!
(An office dog or two wouldn’t hurt your chances, either.)
3. Accountability
Ensure that everyone has a level of accountability and a sense of expectations. If your expectations as their boss are too high, employees won’t be motivated, and will likely come to resent their position – the opposite of what you want when your plan is to engage them. Be concise about what is expected, providing your employees with a yardstick to compare performance to. Clear instructions reduce the likelihood of miscommunication taking place.
The executives and owners should lead by example, and ensure no one is abusing privileges or dodging rules. When someone begins to get away with things, distrust and negativity can run rife. In this case, employees should do as you say and as you do!
4. Recognition and Respect
People like to be noticed and praised for their accomplishments. It’s incredibly validating for someone to be recognized by their boss for good work, and they’re more likely to keep putting their best foot forward.
Showing appreciation can be done infinite ways. Perhaps a bonus, or a paid day off, a meal at their favorite lunch spot – whatever makes the most sense for your team that will communicate your gratitude. Appreciation and gratitude go a long way!
Respecting your workers is also vital. It should go without saying, but treating people the way they wish will do wonders towards building a good relationship with your team. Show them that you value their input and presence. Every member is valued for the skills they provide.
5. Relationships and communication
Everyone knows that having friends at work makes going feel worthwhile. You can never have too many positive relationships in the workplace, because the more people get along, the better the environment, and the happier they will be. Encouraging socializing at work either in person or through communication channels will help build foundations for strong connections. Never underestimate the value that a simple lunch or coffee with co-workers does to team morale.
Follow these 5 tips, and you’ll develop lasting relationships inside, and outside of the workplace!
