by Gert Nzimiro

NewsDecember 11, 20180 comments

How engaged are your employees?

A recent article published by HR Magazine names employee engagement as the biggest obstacle faced by HR directors this year. Surprised? This lingering challenge has seen many HR managers change strategy, incorporating new processes and platforms in an attempt to turn this ongoing issue completely on its head.

Why is employee engagement so important?

The issue of employee engagement isn’t a new problem by any means, but the realisation of the many different elements of a business affected by disengaged employees has only come to light in recent years.

Generally speaking, an engaged workforce is the driving force behind any successful business. In fact, according to Forbes, businesses with engaged employees will witness 6% higher net profit margins. That’s because engagement has a knock-on effect on employee productivity and performance levels – so if your employees are disengaged, the likelihood is they’re underperforming and potentially costing your business money.

How to increase employee engagement

This type of transformation can’t be achieved overnight, but there are a number of measures than can be implemented to help employees feel appreciated, motivated and happier in their jobs.

Recognise great work – Businesses that recognise their employees and their great achievements tend to have significantly higher levels of engagement among staff. Those that go that step further to reward successes also achieve a great response.

Start as you mean to go on – It all starts with effective on-boarding of new employees. If your new-starters aren’t adequately trained, made aware of what your brand stands for or even shown around the building and made to feel welcome, your problems have already begun. Apparently 36% of employees are likely to leave their jobs within their first year, showing just how crucial successful on-boarding really is. 

Create a positive environment – Yes, every business has an objective to fulfil, but it’s important to create a working environment that people actually want to exist in for 40 hours a week. Reducing workplace stress is incredibly important and can be done by encouraging ongoing conversations and transparency.

At Manwood James, we’re more than just recruitment experts. In fact, as successful business consultants, we can help organisations to implement effective employee engagement strategies. For more information, contact our team today.