How To Encourage Employee Engagement-by Pat Gonzalez

Employee engagement is key to an organization, but it is also a challenge to cultivate and to sustain.  Many organizations have been able to create work environments that encourage employee engagement because they understand its value and the importance of implementing strategies to foster it. Organizations depend on effective managers to be committed in creating a work environment that supports employee engagement.

With this is mind it's no surprise that employee engagement will exist if managers are committed to:

• Having conversations with employees that convey how an employee's performance will be measured as well as how employees will be held accountable.

• Coaching employees and placing employees on career paths to insure success.

• Making a commitment to employees to keep them informed and engaged over the long haul and not just for short term projects.  The strategy of employee engagement is a long term strategy.

• Providing the necessary communication to align each employee's role and duties with the organization's overall mission statement and goals. 

In addition to the items above there needs to be an effective recognition and reward system in place that supports and promotes your employee engagement strategy.  The carrot and stick show is not applicable here and effective recognition includes verbal or written acknowledgment from the employee's manager in addition to any reward (bonus, gift certificate, paid time off, etc.)  If you are a manager and you feel uncomfortable with any of the above items please see your HR representative or request a workshop with your local HR consultant.

It's also important to note that demonstrating trust, respect, and communicating the necessary shared values of the organization will reinforce your employee engagement strategy.  Positive relationships with co-workers should be encouraged, since engaged employees need to work, not just with nice people, but with co-workers who are equally engaged.  Integrity, team work, and a passion for quality work will be the benchmark for your policies and strategies.  People who are passionate about what they do at work make ideal co-workers and ideal leaders in your organization.

My next blog will discuss how managers create an environment that does not support employee engagement.  Your feedback and questions are always welcomed.  If you would like to see a specific topic discussed please e-mail me your request.