Employee engagement has become a hot topic in hospitality leadership and management. It’s based on the idea that the more engaged employees are, the higher they are likely to perform in their job. Gallup has identified 12 elements of employee engagement that predict high team performance.
Employee engagement is a workplace approach resulting in the right conditions for all members of an organization to give their best each day, committed to their organization’s goals and values, and be motivated to contribute to organizational success with an enhanced sense of their own well-being. — Engage for
Success
As employers, we understand that when employees care about their work and the company the work for, they use discretionary effort. This ultimately means when they see something that needs to be done, they’re more likely to jump in and get it done without even being asked by a superior.
There are some key drivers to employee engagement. Ultimately, people want purpose and meaning from their work. They desire to be known for what they’re good at. The biggest drivers of employee engagement include purpose, development, caring management, open conversations, and a focus on strengths.
So how do we cultivate an environment where employees are engaged and care about their work?
Spend Time With Them On The Job
Taking a management approach that asks employees what they need from management to make their jobs easier goes a long way. Working alongside the employee, even letting them walk you through their processes, can cultivate a collaborative relationship. This further encourages employee engagement because they feel how much you care about them and their work.
Celebrate Wins and Achievements
Setting attainable goals and celebrating their achievements is another way to cultivate strong employee engagement. From things as simple as saying “thank you” to the team member who went the extra mile, to catered meals for achieving goals, and even extra pay bonuses, celebrating success together builds a stronger culture of engaged team members.
Let Employees Know What They Do Matters
By letting your workers know how they fit into the big picture of the organization instills a sense of purpose for the work they do. This sense of purpose is a personal motivator that boosts self-esteem, confidence, and motivation to carry out their work. When employees understand their purpose and know you find value in them, they will be more likely to bring their best to work.
Respect is a Two-Way Street
If you pay attention to and care for your employees, they will take care of the customers they serve. By treating your workers with respect, you will earn their respect. This is a cycle that works both ways. Alternatively, when workers feel disrespected in their job, they will reflect that same disrespect to the customers they serve.
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