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How to Optimize Employee Engagement [in a Virtual World]
Whether you’re an employee and an employer, you know how essential employee engagement is. But how are we supposed to optimize engagement in a virtual world?
Let’s start by defining employee engagement. There are several definitions, but the one we resonate the most with is from Quantum Workplace, “Employee engagement is the strength of the mental and emotional connection employees feel toward the work they do, their teams, and their organization.”
Let us share a few engagement tips with you.
Tips for employers:
1-on-1 meetings
If you’re able to, schedule a 1:1 meeting with each of your employees. If you are unable to do 1:1s, meet with each department manager. Although it won’t be as personable, you will still get everyone’s feedback and thoughts.
These meetings could be once a week, once a month, or even once a quarter, ask your employees which they would prefer.
Weekly emails
Reach out once or twice a week with any updates, tips, or resources for your employees. Whether you’re telling them about plans for the company or recommending a movie to watch over the weekend, this will help create a more personable relationship and further establish two-way communication.
Check-in on their mental health
This year has been tough on a lot of people’s mental health. Whether it’s because they haven’t been able to see their family or friends, lost their job, or are having a tough time adjusting to remote work, it’s been stressful. While we think you should always check-in to see how your employees are doing, it’s especially crucial right now.
While some people may not want to disclose certain information with you, just reaching out and letting them know you’re here for them could make their day.
Send out a form or survey!
Try asking your employees what they want and don’t want. Some people may love 1:1’s, and some may not. Find out who would pass, and ask what they would like to do moving forward. On the other hand, some people may want to be checked on more often than others — figure out how often you should check-in, and adjust accordingly.
Tips for employees:
How can you help each other?
Chances are you’re all in the same or similar situations trying to balance work and your personal life. If you’re working from home and having a tough time drawing the line between work and leisure, ask your coworkers for help — how are they establishing boundaries?
Check-in on each other
If you notice one of your coworkers has been quiet in meetings or seems stressed, ask them if they need anything. Whether you’re able to help them or not, lending a helping hand can put their mind at ease.
2020 was a strenuous year, and now it’s even more crucial to put time into checking on our people’s well-being. How do you optimize your employee’s engagement? If you are an employee, how do you stay engaged?
