Unlocking the Secrets to Employee Engagement as a Leader

Did you know that over 67% of the people in a recent survey said they would get their boss fired rather than get a raise?

This may seem surprising, but it reflects the quality of bosses and leaders today. However, this doesn't mean that all hope is lost.

As Marcus Buckingham and Ashley Goodall highlight in their book, "Nine Lies About Work,” every leader has apparent shortcomings, but what truly matters is whether they have followers.

As a leader, have you ever wondered what it takes to inspire people to follow your lead and increase employee engagement? Surprisingly, it's not about being flawless but rather about cultivating meaningful connections with your team. In today's dynamic work environment, leaders who understand this can build engaged and motivated followers. Let's explore some actionable insights to help you become a more effective and engaging leader.

On the basis of my work with over 300 executive clients and interviews with more than 100 top thought leaders for my leadership podcast , I’ve identified nine strategic ways to increase the engagement of your employees.

1. Embrace Imperfection:

Leaders don't need to be perfect. In fact, authenticity can be a powerful tool. Understand that everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and showing your vulnerabilities is okay. Being genuine allows your team to relate to you on a human level.

2. Connect with Your Team:

Great leaders create an environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Get to know your team members as unique individuals . Recognize their strengths and let them know that you appreciate what they bring to the table.

3. Inspire a Shared Vision:

Engage your team by connecting them to a larger mission. Ensure that your team understands the bigger picture and how their contributions fit the organization's goals. People are more motivated when they believe in the mission they're working towards.

4. Set Clear Expectations:

Clarity is crucial. Make sure your team knows exactly what is expected of them. Clear communication reduces confusion and enhances trust. It's the foundation upon which solid working relationships are built.

?

5. Foster a Culture of Excellence:

Surround your team with individuals who share the same commitment to excellence. Encourage employee engagement with a culture of continuous improvement and support one another in reaching their full potential.

?

6. Value Strengths:

Recognize and celebrate the strengths of your team members. Encourage them to leverage their unique abilities to contribute effectively to the team's success.

?

7. Build a Supportive Team:

Teamwork is essential. Create an atmosphere where teammates are there for each other, sharing insights and offering help when needed. A collaborative environment strengthens bonds.

8. Encourage Growth:

Challenge your team to improve and grow. Provide constructive feedback and opportunities for skill development. This shows your commitment to their personal and professional advancement.

?

9. Instill Hope and Confidence:

Leaders should be a source of inspiration. Infuse positivity into your team by offering hope and instilling confidence in their abilities. A motivated team is a productive team.

Remember, as a leader, your goal is not perfection but rather the creation of positive human connections with your followers.

Focus on your strengths , nurture a team that values each member, and you'll create a workplace where everyone feels empowered to do their best work and achieve outstanding results. By embracing these principles, you can become the kind of leader who inspires loyalty and engagement among your followers.

?

Sabrina Braham has over 30 years of experience as an author, Top leadership Podcast host , ICF Professional Certified Coach, and management consultant for Fortune 50 - 5000 companies, government, and academic institutions.? She specializes in consulting, executive coaching, training, and workshops for executive leadership, career development, and employee engagement. Sabrina is Clifton Strengths certified with the College of Executive Coaching and the founder of the Impact Executive Leadership Mastermind? group.

Top Five Clifton Strengths

Strategic ??Connectedness ? Learner ? Maximizer ? Ideation

?