Most modern businesses understand the benefit of creating a positive work-space, resulting in an influx of solutions like flex hours, on-the-job perks, and company outings. But, while happy employees are significantly different from engaged employees, many organizations leave employee engagement as an afterthought or don’t pursue it at all. Despite that, positive engagement is one of the most crucial factors to a productive workforce.
Why is positive engagement so important?
Boosts Productivity
Reaching out to employees, connecting with them on an individual level, and using hands-on management techniques helps to boost company productivity as a whole. Engaged employees are more proactive, more focused on what they are doing, and more passionate about results. This naturally creates a culture where employees feel responsible and empowered, and are therefore more likely to go the extra mile, be creative and productive on a project, and be dedicated to completing work.
Increases Company Loyalty
Employee turnover costs U.S. businesses some $11 billion each year, but employee engagement dramatically reduces the chances of employees quitting. When someone feels needed and valuable in their role, they are more satisfied, more driven, and significantly more likely to feel that they have opportunities to move up in their current role.
Improves Communication
An employee who feels listened to is more likely to voice their opinions, give input, and offer feedback. Someone who feels appreciated is more likely to pitch in, contribute to a project, and help their colleagues, because they know it’s not ‘just their job’. By taking steps to actively show employee appreciation and to engage on an individual level, you can boost team communication, as well as inter-company communication for improved collaboration.
Engaged Employees Take Initiative
While not every employee is in a role where they can take initiative, engagement means that employees are focused, dedicated, and passionate about what they are doing. They aren’t just waiting to clock-out at the end of the day, they’re actively working to do a good job. That means they will use creative thinking, take initiative to cut costs or improve a product, and use creative problem solving to tackle obstacles. On a company-wide basis, employees taking a proactive approach will dramatically improve results.
Employee engagement pays off in terms of productivity, improved employee satisfaction, overall morale, and in how individuals approach their responsibilities. Taking the time to culture positive employee engagement will pay off.
About the Author: Jocelyn Pick
