10 Tips to Improve Employee Engagement at Work
Employee engagement isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the secret sauce to a thriving workplace. When employees are engaged, they’re more productive, loyal, and motivated to contribute to the company’s success. But let’s be honest: keeping employees engaged isn’t always easy. It’s not just about free snacks or ping-pong tables (though those don’t hurt). It’s about creating an environment where employees feel valued, heard, and inspired to do their best work.
So, how do you improve employee engagement at work? Whether you’re a manager, HR professional, or business owner, these 10 tips will help you create a workplace where employees genuinely want to show up and give their all.
1. Model Your Core Values and Mission
Your company’s mission and values aren’t just for the “About Us” page—they should be the heartbeat of your organization. Employees want to feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves. When leaders consistently model these values, it sets the tone for the entire team.
For example, if one of your core values is “innovation,” encourage employees to share new ideas and reward creative thinking. When employees see that their work aligns with the company’s mission, they’re more likely to feel engaged and motivated.
Pro Tip: Regularly communicate your mission and values through team meetings, newsletters, and even office decor. Make them impossible to ignore.
2. Ask for and Learn from Feedback
Want to know how to improve employee engagement? Ask your employees. It sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how many companies skip this step. Regular feedback—whether through surveys, one-on-one meetings, or suggestion boxes—shows employees that their opinions matter.
But here’s the kicker: don’t just ask for feedback—act on it. If employees see that their input leads to real change, they’ll feel more invested in the company’s success.
Pro Tip: Use tools like LumApps to create anonymous surveys and gather honest feedback.
3. Make Sure Your Managers Are Engaged
You can’t expect employees to be engaged if their managers aren’t. Managers play a crucial role in shaping the employee experience. They’re the ones who set the tone, provide support, and recognize achievements.
Invest in leadership training to ensure your managers have the skills they need to inspire and motivate their teams. A great manager doesn’t just manage—they lead by example.
Pro Tip: Check out SHRM’s toolkit for developing and sustaining employee engagement through effective leadership.
4. Set Up Volunteer Activities
Team-building doesn’t have to mean awkward trust falls. Instead, consider organizing volunteer activities that allow employees to give back to the community. Whether it’s a beach cleanup or a food drive, these activities foster a sense of purpose and camaraderie.
Plus, volunteering is a great way to show employees that your company cares about more than just the bottom line.
Pro Tip: Partner with local organizations to find volunteer opportunities that align with your company’s values.
5. Support Employees’ Physical and Mental Health
Let’s face it: burned-out employees aren’t engaged employees. To keep your team at their best, prioritize their well-being. Offer wellness programs, mental health resources, and flexible work arrangements.
For example, you could provide gym memberships, host mindfulness workshops, or even offer “mental health days” where employees can take a break without using their PTO.
Pro Tip: According to AIHR, companies that prioritize employee well-being see higher engagement and retention rates.
6. Recognize and Reward Top Performers
Everyone likes to feel appreciated, and recognition is one of the most powerful ways to boost employee engagement. Whether it’s a shout-out in a team meeting, a handwritten note, or a bonus, acknowledging employees’ hard work goes a long way.
But don’t just focus on the top performers—celebrate small wins, too. Did someone go above and beyond to help a colleague? Recognize that effort.
Pro Tip: Create a recognition program that allows peers to nominate each other for awards. It’s a great way to foster a culture of appreciation.
7. Send Frequent Employee Engagement Surveys
Employee engagement isn’t a “set it and forget it” thing. It requires ongoing effort and attention. Regular engagement surveys help you track how employees are feeling and identify areas for improvement.
Use the data from these surveys to make informed decisions about your engagement strategies. And don’t forget to share the results with your team—transparency builds trust.
Pro Tip: Tools like Oak Engage make it easy to create and analyze engagement surveys.
8. Encourage Career Development Opportunities
Employees are more likely to stay engaged if they see a future at your company. Offer opportunities for professional growth, whether it’s through training programs, mentorship, or tuition reimbursement.
When employees feel like they’re growing and advancing in their careers, they’re more likely to stay motivated and committed.
Pro Tip: Create individual development plans for each employee to help them map out their career goals.
9. Foster Open Communication
Communication is the glue that holds everything together. When employees feel like they’re in the loop, they’re more likely to feel connected to the company.
Encourage open communication by holding regular team meetings, sharing company updates, and creating channels for employees to voice their concerns.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams to keep communication flowing, even in remote or hybrid work environments.
10. Create a Fun and Inclusive Work Environment
Last but not least, don’t forget to have fun! A little humor and creativity can go a long way in boosting morale and engagement. Organize team-building activities, celebrate milestones, and create a workplace where everyone feels included.
For example, you could host a monthly “theme day” where employees dress up or decorate their workspaces. Or, set up a “kudos wall” where employees can post notes of appreciation for their colleagues.
Pro Tip: Check out Workhuman’s blog for fun employee engagement games and activities.
Conclusion: Engagement Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Improving employee engagement isn’t something you can check off your to-do list. It’s an ongoing process that requires attention, effort, and a genuine commitment to your employees’ well-being.
By implementing these 10 tips, you’ll create a workplace where employees feel valued, motivated, and excited to contribute. And when employees are engaged, everyone wins—your team, your company, and your bottom line.
So, what are you waiting for? Start boosting employee engagement today!
