What do you do if employee engagement is low in your library services?

2 Set Goals

Once you've identified the issues, set clear and achievable goals to enhance engagement. These objectives should be specific to the needs of your library staff, such as improving job training, enhancing the work environment, or offering more opportunities for professional development. By setting these targets, you give your team something tangible to work towards, which can boost their sense of purpose and drive. It's important that these goals are not only communicated clearly but also that progress is regularly reviewed and celebrated, to maintain momentum and motivation.

3 Improve Communication

Improving communication is key to boosting engagement. Ensure that all library staff are well-informed about library policies, changes, and the reasons behind decisions that affect their work. Regular meetings and an open-door policy can help create a culture of transparency and trust. When employees feel heard and included in the conversation, they're more likely to feel invested in their roles and the success of the library. Effective communication also involves recognizing and appreciating the contributions of each team member.

4 Offer Training

Investing in your staff's professional development through training can significantly increase engagement. Whether it's customer service skills, digital literacy, or special collections management, empowering employees with new skills makes them feel valued and better equipped to handle their responsibilities. It also keeps them up-to-date with the latest library trends and practices, which can improve service quality and innovation. Remember, an engaged employee is often a lifelong learner who appreciates opportunities to grow.

5 Foster Teamwork

Fostering a sense of teamwork and community within your library can greatly impact employee engagement. Organize team-building activities or collaborative projects that encourage staff to work together and support each other. This not only strengthens interpersonal relationships but also promotes a shared vision and collective responsibility for the library's success. When employees feel part of a cohesive team, they are more likely to be committed and take pride in their work.

6 Recognize Efforts

Lastly, recognizing and rewarding the efforts of library staff can go a long way in improving engagement. Acknowledge individual achievements and celebrate milestones to show appreciation for their hard work. This could be through a simple thank you note, public recognition, or a rewards program. When employees feel appreciated, their job satisfaction increases, which can lead to greater engagement and a positive work environment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?