The Update

Keeping Employees Engaged

Engaged employees are the life force behind every successful organization. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to create an environment that keeps your employees engaged and motivated. Here are 10 tips for fostering employee engagement in the workplace.

Cultivate a Positive Work Culture

The tone of your organization starts at the top. Demonstrate the values, work ethic and enthusiasm you expect from your employees. Be approachable and open to feedback. When employees see leadership actively engaged and committed, it sets the standard for the entire team.

Design Your Workplace Around Engagement 

If your workplace values collaboration, provide your employees with the space and the technology to work together and to find each other wherever they are. This can translate into couches in a common area, incorporating a collaboration tool, like Slack, and openly encouraging frequent breaks for consulting with co-workers.

Don’t Embrace the Status Quo

Real change can only happen when you openly admit that change is needed. Don’t let your employees become complacent or they’ll stop trying to outperform today’s best work. It’s a tricky balance, but you can find the perfect blend of pride and the discontent needed to push your company further.

Avoid Burnout

When you’re eager to get your employees to love their work, the lines between employee engagement and complete submersion in work can quickly become blurred. Don’t let your employees work so hard they neglect to spend time with their family and friends or pursue interests outside work. This will lead to burnout and a severe decline in their productivity.

Don’t Favor Certain Personality Types

The personality type that is intrinsically optimistic and agreeable will be a more naturally engaged employee. Don’t favor this kind of employee over those who are more prone to moodiness and negativity. The extroverted worker will not necessarily be more productive, and you cannot expect their performance to match their engagement. Conversely, employees who tend to be more negative might surprise you with brilliant ideas and superior performance.

Set Clear Goals and Expectations

Set clear, achievable goals and expectations for your team. When employees understand their roles and how they contribute to the organization’s success, they’ll be more motivated and engaged.

Foster Transparency 

Create a culture of open and transparent communication. Encourage employees to voice their opinions, concerns, questions and ideas. Hold regular meetings, provide feedback and keep everyone informed about company goals and performance.

Trust Your Team

Give employees the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their work. Trust their expertise and let them know you believe in their abilities. Empowered employees are more engaged and motivated to excel.

Acknowledge Achievements 

Recognize and appreciate your employees’ contributions. Simple acts, like saying “thank you” or publicly acknowledging accomplishments, can go a long way in boosting morale and motivation.

Don’t Take it to Extremes 

If you push too hard, employee engagement can come back to bite you. Yes, your employees should all know how to work well together, but this does not mean your workplace should resemble a high school reunion. If your employees are hyper-focused on getting along, they might forget about getting ahead. Collaboration should be valued in your organization, but it should not be the single defining factor of your company culture.

Employee engagement isn’t just a business strategy; it’s the heart and soul of a thriving organization. Use these tips to keep your employees engaged for maximum success for your business.

RGCU Business Services

Resolving workplace conflicts is just one of the many challenges small business owners face. RGCU offers a wide variety of business services to simplify your life, including small business checking, business lines of credit, equipment loans, and more. If you are looking to expand your small business, RGCU can be a resource for you, your business, and your employees. Contact us today to learn more.