Last updated : November 11, 2024
Employee engagement is the competitive edge separating the successful from the average business. A survey of principles that employers have been using to make meaningful connections with employees revealed some common tactics. We’ve developed a general list that can serve as a tool to evaluate your company’s work culture and transform your work relationships.
HELP—Business leaders are busy running the company, but the wisdom and guidance they can offer employees might be reason to pause. Taking the time to engage with employees and carve out time to be more present and available will create more trust and care while reducing any margin for error.
RELATE—It is important to engage with employees one-on-one and ascertain their views on the company’s policies and initiatives. After all, your employees are the ones affected by the procedures you put in place. It’s important to take an interest in their thoughts about how things are running, and whether or not there are areas for improvement. By listening to your employees in a real way, you are showing them that their opinions matter.
SHOW INTEREST—Employees who are engaged help improve the company’s bottom line. There is a difference between someone who merely goes through the motions versus an employee who is motivated to do well and see the company succeed. Therefore, it’s important to know about your employees on a more personal level. Perhaps there is a group of employees who speak several different languages that could be used as an asset. When employees have a chance to show other skills, they feel supported and empowered. Increase employee engagement by focusing on them and spending time getting know everyone whether it’s asking about the weekend on Monday morning, or socializing at a happy hour event.
HAVE THEIR BACK—Even though the customer is not always right, they are made to think that way. Sometimes, customer-employee interactions can be tense and difficult. If you notice anyone who seems stressed, take a moment to help them overcome any issues they may be facing. Being constructive is the best way to create lasting, positive change in the workplace. It also shows employees that you can be supportive to their needs, and their success at the company.
BE CONSISTENT—Ever have a boss who frequently changed his or her mind? More importantly, how did that make you feel? It’s critical to remain consistent in your approaches and business decisions so employees can feel stable and rally behind changes.
BE HONEST—To retain employees, it’s important to be honest on every level. If someone else delivers bad news, it creates a negative environment and the feeling of distrust. Don’t let fear hinder you from being honest. By being authentic, you will garner respect and build stronger relationships.
DO THE LITTLE THINGS—Employees respond well to positive reinforcement, even if it’s a short email thanking someone for spending an extra hour in the office to complete a project. Recognition is something all employees crave, because it tells them that their efforts are noticed and appreciated. Other ways to enhance morale are incorporating a monthly breakfast or lunch, sponsoring a company picnic, or thanking employees in person for a job well done.
MANAGE EXPECTATIONS—While it’s important to challenge employees and keep them sharp, you shouldn’t just be setting expectations. The best scenario is setting goals for which your crew will have to reach, but are still reasonable. Don’t stop there; make sure you check back in and monitor activity, making adjustments to the process, but also the goal at times. It’s also another opportunity to have meaningful discussion in short-term and long-term strategy sessions.
