A step-by-step guide for improving employee engagement

Tuesday, 28 February 2012 05:25

Ensure that you engage with your employees

The economic crisis of recent years has – understandably – had a damaging effect on the morale of many British workers, but have you considered how you can stop this from happening to your team? By boosting employee engagement in the workplace, you can ensure staff feel happier working for you.

Engaging with workers is important at the best of times, but even more so during periods when your organisation or the economy as a whole is struggling.

Simply asking your employees to come forward with any concerns they have can be an effective way to find out their thoughts on day-to-day working life at your company. A common complaint among many workers is they do not feel appreciated for the hard work they do; however, offering incentive schemes that recognise and reward best practice is the perfect means to prove you do care.

Giving out a gift voucher or card to the person who has achieved the highest monthly sales figures or has gone above and beyond the call of duty in providing great customer service is sure to boost employee motivation and encourage every member of your team to give 110 per cent.

While it is possible to get gift vouchers that can be used at a range of high street stores, you should consider getting a reward card that appeals directly to a worker's interests. This could be for a particular shop you know they like, while a restaurant voucher is sure to be loved by budding foodies. Get a leisure voucher and the recipient will be able to use the card to visit theme parks or enjoy a short break away. After using your voucher to have a great day out, they're likely to return to the office feeling revived and full of vitality.

Of course, there are many other staff rewards to choose from than those revolving around commending a worker's individual performance for the month. People who have been at your organisation for a long time will have accumulated a wealth of experience and knowledge over the years and you'll be keen to not lose out on this by seeing them leave for one of your rivals. In years gone by, a gold watch was the best way to reward long-serving staff. Today, however, the use of gift vouchers and personalised mementos will make staff feel more valued.

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