As a result of the global pandemic in 2020, the workplace has changed drastically. With many employees being made redundant and companies forced to move their employees to remote work, there has been significant pressure on companies to adapt to continue operating and thriving.

The way in which work is performed has been reimagined on a massive scale, particularly in the face of new working environments and communication methods. As a result of this, new approaches to forging engaged workplaces have had to be discovered.

Before diving into tips and tricks to help you effectively foster an engaged workplace, let’s take a look at what defines engaged workplaces and their benefits.

Engaged Workplaces and Their Benefits

Having an engaged workplace essentially involves a company having a team of people who are motivated and committed to their work and workplace, striving to achieve goals that are aligned with the broader organisation’s vision. Making the commitment to create an engaged workplace helps to create a more harmonious environment, giving every team member a reason to care about the success of their organisation.

There are a number of flow on effects or benefits associated with engaged workplaces including:

• Higher levels of motivation
• Better team morale
• Increased productivity
• Better customer service
• Lower rates of absenteeism and employee turnover

Tips for Fostering Engaged Workplaces

While the workplace may have changed, there are still many things that can be done to ensure that workers remain engaged and motivated. Communication and trust between employers and workers are vital elements contributing to a positive workplace environment in light of recent world events.

1. Develop Trust Between Employees and Employers

Although fostering trust may prove to be more of a challenge in remote or hybrid working environments, regular check-ins and updates can help both parties to gain a better understanding and provide the required support. It’s vital for trust to be developed between employers and remote workers to enhance productivity and motivation, and this can be developed through constant communication.

2. Understand Your Employees’ Challenges

With the shift towards new working environments and communication methods, it’s likely that new challenges have arisen, particularly in relation to ways of working  Now more than ever, it’s crucial for employers to take the time to learn more about their employees, give direction and provide help with any new barriers or difficulties they may be facing. 

3. Provide Support and Resources

Employers also need to work out the level of support required by individual workers. This includes ensuring sufficient access to relevant resources, setting and reviewing professional tasks and goals, as well as providing positive reinforcement and helpful feedback. This enables them to deliver high quality results, understand their role in the wider organisation and motivate them to continually improve their performance.

4. Share Strategic Plans and Company Goals

It is also a good idea for employers to share strategic plans and company goals with remote employees as it helps to foster a sense of engagement with the business. In addition to this, it demonstrates that the organisation is planning ahead for the future and suggests that they’ve been considered as part of the long term plans. This provides a sense of direction and greater team involvement, helping them to feel connected regardless of their physical work arrangements.

5. Foster Job Satisfaction

Job satisfaction is still as important for those working from home as it was for office workers. Employees need to enjoy their daily work, feel as though they have a good relationship with their supervisor and will still have opportunities for professional development and training. This will help to encourage employee retention and reduce rates of absenteeism and turnover.

6. Encourage Teamwork

Teamwork is also still crucial to fostering an engaged workplace, even if that workplace is a remote one. Working with others and being a part of a group that is striving to achieve the same goals increases meaning, purpose and a feeling of belonging, and has a very positive effect on both wellbeing and engagement.

Teams that are working virtually may find it more of a challenge to connect with colleagues than was previously the case. Employers need to ensure that they have available the technology required to allow communication and to encourage workers to make use of it.

Ready to Take the Next Step Towards Engaged Workplaces?

In order for an organisation to successfully foster an engaged workplace, major cultural shifts need to be undertaken and there must be support from the leadership team. This will set the foundation for future business success, with numerous benefits resulting from employees that are more engaged, motivated and committed.

Another consideration is having the right tools in place to enable a workplace to collaborate, communicate and work effectively. Find out more about the benefits of modern intranets and the role they play in employee and business success. 

The fostering of an engaged workplace remains every bit as important and beneficial in the workforce that has been reshaped by the COVID-19 pandemic as it was before, and it’s crucial to consider how your business can work towards ensuring even remote workers remain fully engaged.