What Employee Engagement Looks Like Now

While many companies have returned to onsite offices, others plan to have their employees remain remote for the foreseeable future. But shifting workplace dynamics during the pandemic have led many leaders to question what employee engagement looks like here and now.
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Writing in Inc., Marcel Schwantes, founder and Chief Human Officer of Leadership From the Core, says one fact remains constant: Employee engagement is about establishing a goal and a purpose for those you lead. “It's almost impossible to keep employees dedicated to their work without a larger purpose.” Schwantes asked four leaders how they do this:

• Jason VandeBoom, CEO of ActiveCampaign, says leaders must rally employees around a purpose beyond just money. His company puts customers front and center for employees. “A focus on customers, or the clients a company is helping, can bring employees outside of themselves. "
• Social goals "unite us and give us purpose," says Babak Varjavandi, CEO of Nakisa, a global technology company. He says social goals such as diversity, teamwork, and collaboration can go a long way in inspiring employee success. “They make it easy for employees to associate their work with the larger good and personal development.”
• Keith Kitani, CEO of change communications platform GuideSpark, says, "During a time that is bursting with uncertainty, leaders have to tap into their true emotions and lead with authenticity." He says leaders should connect emotionally with employees and highlight the "why" around the goals and purpose of the organization.
• Heather Kelly, CEO of public relations firm SSPR, advises taking time during all-company meetings to give shout-outs and real-time feedback to allow employees to feel support from everyone in the organization, especially from the executive leadership team. By making a team-oriented environment the priority of an organization, everyone feels empowered and encouraged in their role.

 
How are you keeping your employees engaged during these times? To join the conversation, click "comments"

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