Feeling lost at work? How your manager should help

It’s not at all uncommon for workers to feel disengaged from their jobs. In fact, data from Gallup indicates that employee engagement figures since 2001 have only reached as high as 36% once—in 2020.

But how can managers go about re-engaging their employees? In this Thursday edition of Forbes Edge, we’ve got some strategies that can help boost engagement and productivity in the workplace. Then, we’ll take a look at why the best time to quit a job can be different for different people, along with advice on how to prepare for leaving a position.?

Finally, we’ve got a collection of helpful stories below, including a list of the best jobs for introverts and some tips for spending less during the holidays this year.

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Tips and strategies: Leadership tips for increasing employee engagement

One of the keys to success is for a company to have a workforce that is committed to the mission and engaged in their work. But that’s easier said than done. According to Gallup's August 2023 employee engagement survey, only 33% of U.S. employees are engaged, while 16% are actively disengaged.?

This should serve as a warning sign for managers, because when workers feel uninspired by their jobs, productivity will dwindle. And that can have a ripple effect on the company’s performance and long-term sustainability.

Here are three ways that leaders can encourage their team to engage with their work again:

1. Foster purpose and individual strengths: Managers need to take the time to understand their employees’ unique skills and align them with organizational goals. By creating opportunities for them to shine in their areas of strength, they will feel valued and empowered to make impactful contributions.
2. Invest in professional development: When a company offers career development opportunities, it not only boosts employee skills but can also create a sense of loyalty. The investment tells employees that the organization is committed to their long-term growth.
3. Recognize and reward performance: Whether through public praise at team meetings or performance bonuses, acknowledging achievements will make employees feel valued and integral to the company’s success.

These are just three of the five strategies that Dr. Samantha Madhosingh offers in her recent article for Forbes. Whether you’re a manager looking to inspire your team or an employee seeking opportunities for engagement at the office, read the full story here for more insight.

Practical advice: When should you quit your job? The best time to resign

If you’re thinking about quitting your job, it’s a good idea to consider your timing. Being intentional about orchestrating your departure will enable you to maintain your credibility, integrity and relationships—and it will ensure that you can make a jump to your next role with your financial and emotional health intact.

Here are some of the instances when the time might be right for you to move on:

• When you’re calm: If you are triggered, angry or in the heat of a difficult moment at your current job, you likely won’t be at your best or thinking straight. This isn’t to say that if something upsetting happens on the job you shouldn’t leave, but be sure to give yourself time to get back in control of your thoughts before making any rash decisions.
• When it’s the right time of year: Statistically, January and February are the months with the greatest number of job openings—and the largest number of applicants. If you’re planning to quit, do your homework about where your next job will likely be. Look for opportunities where the job market is trending, and which sectors are experiencing the fastest growth.
• When you’re ready financially: Ideal timing means giving the traditional two-week notice and starting your new job right after that. But if you leave a job without another in the works, be sure to plan for the financial implications—ensuring you have enough funds to allow you the time to find your next opportunity.

For more advice on the best time to leave your job, read the full story from Tracy Brower.

More:?

• 5 Best Jobs For Introverts (And How To Thrive In An Extroverted World)
• Your Deadline Won’t Meet Itself. How To Make A Roadmap For Your Writing Projects
• What’s The Magic Number Of Résumés To Send Out? For Some, It Exceeds 500
• Gen Z And The Great Office Debate Won’t End In 2023
• 9 Tips And Strategies To Spend Less During The Holidays

Across the newsroom:?

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Thank you for reading! We'll be back next week with another edition of Forbes Edge. If you missed Tuesday’s newsletter, check it out here for advice from entrepreneurs on protecting your mental health.

This edition of Forbes Edge was written and curated by associate editor Chris Dobstaff.