Engagement in the Workplace

According to the ADP Research Institute, 84% of Employees are NOT engaged in the workplace.  But what does it mean to be engaged?  Engagement is NOT the same as satisfaction.  You can be satisfied with your position or duties but still not be fully engaged in your work.   Gallup defines engaged employees as those who are involved in, enthusiastic about and committed to their workplace.  Engagement reflects a willingness and ability to contribute to the company’s success.

The Role of Leadership in Engagement

Good leadership focuses on Human Connections; Great Leadership emphasizes Vision and Mission.  Our level of engagement is often influenced by relations we have with our colleagues and supervisors.  Engaged employees are motivated to be at work daily and strive to bring their best to the job.

A Personal Reflection

In my own career, I have always prided myself on being a hard worker, a value in stilled in me by my father.   However, there was a period when I felt that my employer no longer needed me.  Although the company’s mission remained the same, their business plan had shifted, and I didn’t believe my skills and qualifications aligned with their new vision.  Consequently, I began to disengage, doing only the minimum required.

Fortunately, in a workplace where close relationships were fostered, my disengagement did not go unnoticed.  I was confronted about my performance, leading to open conversations that resulted in new opportunities for me.  In contrast, in a less connected environment, my disengagement might have gone unnoticed, as it does for many others every day.

Reflecting on Engagement

Are you engaged in your work?  What changes might be necessary for you to become fully engaged?

As an employer, what are you losing because your employees are not engaged?  What steps are you willing to take to boost engagement within your team?

At Sams Fischer Professional Edge, LLC, we offer professional development coaching to help team members to access their inner resources, build goals, and implement action plans.  How can we support you and your team?

Wishing you the best as you take your next steps toward having a Professional Edge.