There are numerous tangible benefits to be gained by engaging employees in the workplace, particularly for organizations with positions that demand extensive training, experience or skill. While business owners and leaders are often tempted to try to control as much as possible, this kind of strict top-down management style can actually do more harm than good.
Successful businesses know that they need to communicate with employees and engage them in a real, personal way to maximize their performance. Showing genuine employee appreciation through incentives, verbal affirmation and opportunity for professional growth are essential for building trust and motivation in the workforce. Employers can explore a variety of strategies to empower their employees and motivate them to work hard for the company.
Streamlining and Improving Micro Processes
No one understands the challenges and shortfalls of your company’s customer service policy better than the people who are in touch with clients all day long. Asking employees throughout the organization for regular feedback and input allows them to offer informed insight, which can lead to great improvements in core processes. It also encourages employees as it gives them a chance to have their voices heard and concerns addressed.
Rather than forcing employees to stick to rigid protocols and procedures, growing companies should include them when evaluating and designing these processes. A recent study found that allowing employees to make their own decisions regarding the needs and priorities of customer interactions was linked to a pronounced increase in customer spending and overall profit.
Investing in Employees to Reduce Turnover
Employees that feel they have hit a “glass ceiling” in their professional life are far more likely to adopt an apathetic attitude at work or seek opportunities with other companies. Professional workers often desire personal advancement and enrichment, so it’s important for employers to offer ample educational experiences to workers. This not only motivates them to stay with the company, but also expands their abilities and capacity as they perform the duties associated with their position.
Improved Relations with Clients
Clients interact with employees at all levels of the hierarchy within a company, and most of their communication is done with customer service reps and sales experts. Customers react positively to motivated and dedicated employees who look for ways to ease their concerns and solve their problems. Employees who feel engaged and loyal towards their employer are willing to go above and beyond to impress clients, which increases the chances that they will return to purchase products or services again in the future.
An Energetic and Meritocratic Environment
A friendly, competitive and positive atmosphere in the workplace is a goal for many companies. This type of environment encourages employees to motivate each other as they work towards a common objective. Workers who feel personally invested in a project will pay attention to every detail and put in more effort to make sure that it succeeds.
While some organizations use commissions or the prospect of raises as an incentive to boost employee performance, business leaders should also strive to earn the respect and loyalty of their team. Employees can be motivated to push themselves further if they know that their hard work will be noticed and appreciated.
Engaging Employees Throughout Their Career
Creating a strong company culture begins during the hiring process and continues indefinitely throughout the life of a company. Business leaders and managers should maintain a clear vision for the company as well as individual projects, so they can find ways to truly connect with their team members and align their interests with those of their employer.
JP George – Contributor for Engage For Success
