In 2015, GALLUP reported that 32% of Americans wereconsidered engaged in their jobs, 50% were unengaged, while 17% were “activelydisengaged.” These numbers aren’t muchof an improvement from the GALLUPresults cited in 2005. Over 10 years ago,employees were 29% engaged, 54% unengaged, and 17% actively disengaged. Hopefully,you look at these reports and see opportunity, because there are many ways toactively engage people, which in turn increases revenue, productivity, andoverall attitude of your company. Employers are also finally realizing theimportance and benefit of engaging their employees. So, how do we reach thosewho are “unengaged” and motivate them to join those who are passionate aboutwhat they do, feel a connection to the company and their managers, andassisting in moving the company forward? The first place to start is connecting with them.
Connect
Peopleneed to feel valued. Ivey Business Journal quotes, “Employee engagement is a directreflection of how employees feel about their relationship with their boss.” Itis essential to genuinely invest in those relationships. Authentically praisingand congratulating someone for a job well-done, can go a long way. In a workenvironment where people believe their boss or manager cares enough torecognize their performance, the tone is set for peer-to-peer recognition tooccur, which also positively contributes to the work environment and overallattitude. Once the relationship is established, it can be fostered withemployee-focused initiatives and incentive programs.
Immediate reward and recognition
Once thoseincentive programs are initiated, they need to be properly executed in order tobe effective. Positively reinforcing people for achieving a desired outcome (bothwith verbal praise or tangent reward) is not a new concept, and in fact, ispracticed with even the youngest of learners. Effectively engaging youremployees is no different. Clearly outlining the expectation of how to earn thereward, and delivering it as quickly as possibly upon completion is key.Immediate reward and recognition will encourage the employees to associate thedesired performance with the reward and motivate for future outcomes.
Looking back at the statistics, it’s clear that there's ampleroom for growth. Connecting, socializing, and building meaningful relationshipswithin the office can ultimately better you and your business.
Are you ready now to step back and take another look at yourrewards and recognition programs? If you would like another perspective or somefresh ideas, contact a Marketing Innovators solutions expert.Our solutions team has the experience and creativity to ensure your programmoves in the right direction to remain relevant.
Sources
iveybusinessjournal.com/what-engages-employees-the-most-or-the-ten-cs-of-employee-engagement
http://www.gallup.com/poll/188144/employee-engagement-stagnant-2015.aspx
