Keeping Workers Engaged

Sixty percent of CFOs interviewed for staffing firm Robert Half think their workers are more engaged on the job compared to three years ago. The not-so-good news? The majority (52 percent) are concerned this may still be insufficient.

Recent findings from a separate study help to underscore the point that executives should not take employee engagement — or loyalty — for granted.

About one-third of professionals surveyed for a study on worker satisfaction and engagement from Robert Half and Happiness Works indicated that they are considering leaving their jobs in the next six months.

Robert Half offers these five suggestions to help improve employee engagement:

Give individuals a glimpse of their future. Check in with team members about possible career paths at your company, including potential advancement opportunities and milestones needed to achieve them. Individuals want to know where they’re headed and how you will help them get there.
Promote creativity and innovation. The Robert Half and Happiness Works research found the ability to do interesting and meaningful work is a key factor in employee happiness. Encourage your staff to pursue new projects — and explore new pathways — at your company they are likely to find fulfilling.
Keep lines of communication open. Employees are inclined to feel more connected to their jobs when they have productive work relationships with their managers. Remain accessible to your team and let them know they can come to you with questions and concerns.
Take an interest in your employees’ work — and their lives. Every worker is an individual. Make a point to learn about and support staff members’ professional goals and aspirations, as well as their passions outside the office.
Ensure your firm is always staffed appropriately. When employees are overworked, they are less likely to feel motivated and engaged. Make sure your company has access to skilled temporary professionals who can support your team when business demands escalate and during prolonged hiring processes.

Key takeaway: keep employees engaged, or risk losing them.