The term employee engagement first appeared as a concept in management theory in the 1990s. Employee engagement refers to employees who are absorbed and enthusiastic about their work. This type of engagement engenders the sort of positive action from employees that are interested in promoting and furthering their company’s reputation and interests.
It is meant to encourage excitement about the job being done and to stimulate ideas from team members who are happy to work with one another.
Employee engagement is also about:
- Thoroughly understanding one’s role in a team or organization
- Having a clear understanding of an organization’s purpose and objectives
- Being given a voice to express views on how to make the organization better
- Being included in the decision-making process.
- Being fully included as a member of a company or a team within a company.
The Employer’s Role
If employees are to be fully engaged, they will benefit from:
- Clear goals and the facility to reach them.
- Regular constructive feedback.
- Support to develop new skills.
- Trust and fairness based on mutual respect.
- Recognition for a job well done.
Creating a High Performance, Engaged Work Environment
Creating a work environment that suits employers and employees can be a complex endeavor. Managers and leaders must clearly communicate the firm’s mission and values. One of the ways they can do this is by living those values.
Selecting people with the right aptitudes and attitudes will also help create a positive, engaged work environment. Once employees are in place, it’s up to managers to remain alert and keep the work environment modern, humane, and enjoyable for all.
Individuals want meaningful work, good management, and growth opportunities. An inclusive, flexible leadership team can deliver all this and more.
For work to feel meaningful, employees care not only about what they are working on, but how much scope they have for creativity or problem-solving, and whether or not they have enough time to do the job well.
With this in mind, consider that successful companies empower their employees. They give them the tools, the time, and the space to succeed.
Much of today’s economy is driven by value through service, intellectual property or creativity. When people are at the core of modern business, companies that give people autonomy, mastery, and purpose will prevail.