Experts reveal the key to employee engagement

Nearly a third of workers will be looking to quit their jobs this year and with a lack of appreciation as one of the leading causes, businesses need to step up their game if they want to keep their staff.

1. Communicate openly and honestly

Strong communication is key to any relationship, and this is especially true for the employer-employee relationship. Make an effort to include everyone in all company news, whether it’s good or bad, to make your employees feel valued and part of the business’s overall goals.

Research adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development Jill Miller said: “As the workforce grows, you can no longer rely on informal communication, but need to introduce more formal mechanisms to ensure everyone receives the same message, and no one is left out.

Employees need to feel as though they can communicate upwards too, letting their employers know about any concerns they may have.

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2. Positive affirmations

Recognising your employees for their hard work is one of the quickest, easiest and most cost-effective ways to give your workplace engagement a boost. From a congratulatory post-it note to winning employee of the month, celebrating the achievements of your staff ensures that they feel truly valued.

Director of Smarter Digital Marketing Brian Londsale said that managing directors going out of their way to recognise staff is key to creating a happy, vibrant working environment. By rewarding employees with praise, you will not only encourage quality work but also reduce your turnover of staff.

3. Provide benefits that matter

Work perks are important to maintaining a strong, happy workforce. Benefits like vouchers and free food are a start, but research has shown that workers particularly enjoy flexible working hours and a paid birthday day off.

Read next: Work perks to keep Brummie staff happy

 

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