What is employee engagement

Besides dealing with day-to-day HR operations, HR professionals and business leaders need to consider how to keep employee engagement initiatives up-to-date.

A study by Gallup back in 2017 found that just 15% of employees were engaged in the workplace. Lockdowns, social distancing and remote work have likely only contributed to the number getting higher. What's more is that in 2023 Gallop's latest study found 90% of UK workers are disengaged.

Our own more recent research found that 60% of employers hadn’t introduced any new ways to keep employees connected over the last few years.

Granted, the biggest challenge by far has been maintaining connectedness, employee engagement and relationships in a time when we’ve never been more apart. How can you help your team become more connected during this era of digital working?

A quick introduction

Throughout this guide, you’ll find tips, advice and case studies from companies that have nailed employee engagement at home, along with a blueprint for your employee engagement plan.

What isn't employee engagement

Furthermore, employee satisfaction is not employee engagement.

Similarly, employees might be satisfied in their job, show up for their 9-5 and complete their work. But that same ‘satisfied’ employee probably won’t go the extra mile for your business and will likely be easily lured away by a job prospect that offers pay rise.

The emotional connection that comes with high levels of engagement means your employees actually care about their work and the company they work for. They’re not here for just the pay packet or the next promotion, but they work to see your organisation reach its goals.

What is employee engagement

Employee engagement

Gallup have suggested that engaged employees were more productive, have lower absenteeism rates, and are more invested in their company’s success.

And yet, despite the evidence of the value of employee engagement programmes, just 40% of businesses have one.

Of course, employee engagement can mean different things in different businesses, so let’s make a start with a broad definition of what employee engagement is – and what it isn’t.

Employee happiness vs engagement

Let's be clear. Employee happiness (although good, of course) is not the same employee engagement.

Employee happiness doesn’t necessarily mean they are engaged and working hard. Table tennis tables, free fruit and Friday beers are great – but making your employees happy does not make them more engaged.

Employee engagement describes the emotional connection employees have to your organisation, including its culture, mission, and goals. A strong emotional connection is what drives employees to go the extra mile in their jobs.

Three ways to improve engagement through great software

Employee Discounts

Support your employees' financial wellbeing.
Reduce the demand for salary increases.
An affordable way to support the interests of every employee.

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNTS

Performance Management

An automated process that’s easy to follow.
A holistic approach to performance that engages employees.
Help going above and beyond a tick-box exercise.

PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

Employee Benefits

Benefits can be totally integrated into payroll, so it's easier for the HR manager and employee.
Heaps to choose from, and simple to implement.
An easy way to keep talent happy.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

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