#12 Fix Employee Engagement Now: Top 3 Practical Tips from Henry Biemann - The Titan of Talent
Employee engagement is at a critical low. According to the 2024 Engagement Report from People Element, only 56% of employees are engaged. If you're a senior leader, this isn't just a statistic; it's a wake-up call. Disengaged employees cost the global economy trillions and drag down your company's performance. But here's the good news: you have the power to change this. Let's not sugarcoat it—if you don't address this, you're failing your team and your organization. Here's how to turn things around, starting today.
1) Listen and Act on Feedback
First things first: your role as a leader is crucial. You need to listen to your employees. And I mean really listen. Nearly one-third of employees feel undervalued, which is a recipe for disaster. They need to know their voices matter and that you're not just paying lip service to their concerns.
Action Step: As a leader, it's your responsibility to implement a robust feedback system for honest, anonymous input. But it doesn't stop there. You need to act on this feedback. Make tangible changes that show your employees their opinions lead to real action. This is how you build trust and engagement within your team.
2) Prioritize Employee Development
Growth opportunities are a huge driver of engagement. Yet, 65% of employees feel they lack these opportunities. If your best people can't see a future with your company, they'll find one elsewhere.
Action Step: Create clear, transparent career paths and development plans. Offer continuous learning opportunities through workshops, online courses, and mentorship programs. Make it clear that your organization is a place where careers grow.
3) Build Trust and Confidence in Leadership
Trust in leadership is at an all-time low, with only 23% of U.S. employees strongly agreeing that they trust their leadership. This isn't just bad for morale; it's toxic for your company culture.
Action Step: Be transparent and consistent in your communication. Share your vision for the future and how every employee fits into that vision. Regular town hall meetings, detailed updates, and one-on-one conversations can bridge the trust gap.
The Bottom Line
Employee engagement isn't optional; it's essential. By listening to your employees, prioritizing their development, and building trust, you can create an environment where everyone thrives. The time to act is now. Don't let another day pass with your team feeling disengaged and undervalued.
Check out the 2024 Engagement Report from People Element here for more insights.