One of the latest key themes in HR and recruitment is how to create and maintain engagement with existing employees. Engagement is a broad term; simplified it is the relationship between an employee and the company they work for. An engaged employee is one who is “fully absorbed by and enthusiastic about their work”. Many companies find that they struggle to get staff to retain an interest in the affairs of their employer. Here are our top tips for ensuring that your colleagues remain connected and attached to the company:
Produce an engagement survey and act on the results
A survey is often the first step companies take when trying to measure engagement, but it is only as useful as the action taken. The first thing to consider is the format of the survey itself. Shorter surveys, with some open-ended questions, are proven to generate a higher response rate, with more useful answers. Colleagues will appreciate the smaller time commitment and the ability to voice their suggestions in a free format.
You can then identify themes and recurring issues throughout the answers and decide on any remedial action. Crucially, by involving your workforce in the process and giving them a platform to voice their opinions, which are then acted on; they’ll feel valued.
Create a social culture
Participation in events outside of the office is a great way of improving relationships and adds a social aspect to the work environment. Events, such as a corporate family fun day or taking part in something for charity, have a range of benefits for staff wellbeing and in turn, strengthens their ties to the company. By seeing their employer and their colleagues in a different setting, can help to build a happier, more productive workforce.
Offer opportunities for growth and development
One of the most common reasons for disengagement from staff is a feeling of being underused and not tested fully in their roles. Ensure you have a process in place, such as appraisals, so individuals can discuss their aspirations and ambitions. Look to expand their job description and responsibilities, and include them in one-off projects to give new experience as and when they arise.
Offer wellness opportunities
Gym memberships and get fit schemes have both been proven to be hugely beneficial. The practice of giving employees the option of free fitness opportunities is well established. It helps to create a culture where the company demonstrates its consideration for their employees’ physical and mental welfare. Healthier staff are happier and more productive, which naturally benefits the working environment.
Reward staff
Rewarding good performance is a simple, and cost-effective, way of driving engagement. It allows staff to feel appreciated and valued by the company and reassures them that good work does not go unnoticed. It doesn’t have to cost the earth and can be done in a lot of different ways. A longer lunch break, a company-wide email or a personal thank you note are just a few of the many ways that people can feel rewarded. Alternatively, a specialist service, such as a rewards and benefits platform like Perkbox (which we offer to all Ambitions staff), where staff can access exclusive discounts and savings, are a great way to improve morale.
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