Reviving Global Employee Engagement: Strategies for Leaders

Global Employee Engagement is Slipping: What Are We Going to Do About It?

Did you hear the news? Global employee engagement levels are on a downward spiral, and it’s about time we took notice. For the first time in a decade, engagement has taken a hit, costing businesses a staggering £8.1 trillion annually. Yes, you read that right! That’s not just a statistic to flash around in meetings; it’s a wake-up call for every leader out there.

What’s Happening to Engagement?

It’s hard to ignore the seriousness of these figures. From the corner office to the factory floor, employees are feeling disengaged and unmotivated. Perhaps it’s the hybrid work model that’s become a little too hybrid, or the constant barrage of emails in our inboxes. Whatever the reasons, we’ve got to face the music.

So, what’s our next move? At City Skills, we believe there are two fundamental areas to focus on. Spoiler alert: it all starts with us—leaders and team players alike.

1. Prioritise Your Own Engagement

You can’t pour from an empty cup, right? Before you can engage your team, you need to ensure you’re taking proper care of yourself. This isn’t selfish; it’s essential for smart leadership.

Set Boundaries

• Protect Your Time: Set clear boundaries to safeguard your time and energy. Know when to switch off.
• What Energises You: Identify what lifts you up versus what drains your spirit. Are there tasks that leave you feeling invigorated?
• Define Your Success: Redefine success on your own terms, not merely through metrics and targets. Real success feels fulfilling.

Believe me, when you’re feeling energised, it resonates with your team. Authenticity breeds engagement, and it’s a trend worth starting.

2. Lead with Impact

Engaging your team isn’t merely about increasing your workload; it’s about working more strategically. It’s like steering a ship through rough waters. Here’s how to make sure your team feels valued:

Listen and Support

• Hear Them Out: Listen to what your team genuinely needs. Sometimes, it’s as simple as creating a space for open dialogue.
• Tailored Solutions: Provide support that aligns with those needs. One size doesn’t fit all; it’s about being adaptable.
• Aim for Efficiency: Focus on achieving more with less effort. Efficiency is more about teaming up than working harder.

Post-COVID, flexibility and trust are key. Build a culture where employees feel safe discussing their needs. You might be surprised by how much it pays off in the end.

Why This Matters

Leadership isn’t merely a title; it’s the ability to inspire and uplift those around you. When engagement starts to dwindle, it becomes crucial to reflect on our approach. Ask yourself—what steps are you taking to reinvigorate engagement in your team? You might find the answers in those quiet moments of contemplation.

Here’s a little personal tip from my journey: I once believed that constant contact equated to good engagement. But I quickly learned that it’s quality, not quantity, that counts. There’s something wonderfully powerful about giving people the space to express their thoughts, ideas, and feelings.

A Final Thought

As we navigate these challenging times, remember that employee engagement starts with us. Let’s make it a priority to create a work environment where everyone feels connected and inspired. After all, it’s about building something meaningful together.

So, what will be your first step towards enhancing engagement within your team? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!