A Disengaged World

For the last decade, we have struggled to engage our employees at their jobs. An engaged worker has a deep connection with their company, the company’s mission, values, and to their fellow coworkers. Engaged workers find personal meaning and value in the work they do so they will not hesitate to go above and beyond for their company. However, only about 13% of the employees are engaged. Yes, 13%!!! This means that most likely YOUR company is filled with many of these disengaged workers. The actively disengaged employees are costing United States up to $550 billion, and $112 billion USD in the UK per year. Wow...

In a world where many economies are becoming increasingly globalized, employee disengagement could potentially have many lasting consequences. Disengaged workers are hurting companies in many ways. Turnover, poor decision making, demoralizing fellow employees, you name it.

Being the founder of SPIRIT, the Corporate Sport, and Team Engagement Company, I believe that there are many tactics managers can employ to turn their disengaged workers into superstars. In a world that is constantly evolving, our management tactics need to evolve as well if we are to survive and prosper. From my experience, here are some easy things you can do to keep your employees engaged.

“The Chain is only as strong as its weakest link. If one member of a team doesn’t perform well, the whole team will fail.”

Recognition

If done properly, recognizing an employee for their good work is one of the easiest things you can do! The trick is doing it from the heart. A quick “good job” imply won’t cut it in most cases. Try to keep it personal by taking them out to lunch or by writing a handwritten note! Sincerity is important too. We all know when someone is being fake, so do it from the heart.

Be transparent and communicate

Communication is a key ingredient in every relationship. In a boss- employee relationship, communication is no less important. Be clear with them on expectations, provide proper feedback, and listen to what your employees have to say! Proper communication gives employees the chance to share their thoughts, and suggest new ideas for the company.

Ask them how you’re doing

Ahhh how the tables have turned. In all seriousness though, asking for employee feedback is critical in keeping your employees engaged and happy in the workplace. Asking for feedback helps identify what is working and what isn’t and allows you to make the proper adjustments.

Providing tools for success

Every employee should be given everything they need to succeed in the workplace. By providing the proper tools, you clear a path for them to succeed as a professional and as a human being. As employees become more and more experienced, they will crave new challenges. Don’t be afraid of assigning new tasks that will help them take that next step in their career.

Build a relationship with them

Last bit of advice is quite simple actually. Be their friend. Show them that you care by trying to get to know them on some personal level outside of work. Get to know what drives them, what their favorite sports are, and what stresses them out. In doing so, you show that you respect them as a normal human being that have lives outside of work.

Engaging your employees will take time, effort, and sincerity. It will not happen overnight or in a week. However, I guarantee you that if you put in the time and effort into your employees, even the most disengaged worker can become the next superstar your company needs. Want to learn more about ways to engage your employees at the workplace? Leave a comment or send me a message privately!

About the Author:

Jordan Campbell has 10 years of experience working in China with an extensive background in management of brands, events, corporate fitness, and team engagement. Jordan is the proud founder Verve International, a leading Events Management and Exhibition Staffing Agency that covers events China-wide, and exhibitions globally.

Last year, Jordan launched a new company called SPIRIT. The aim of SPIRIT is to engage corporate clients and employees in wellness, sports and health. In less than a year, SPIRIT has garnered a lot of buzz by winning numerous awards, many great clients, and forming a budding relationship with Reebok.