Ten Simple Ways to Engage Your Employees

Nearly seven out of 10 workers are disengaged at work–with more than 17 percent describing themselves as “actively disengaged.” Low levels of employee engagement translate directly to attrition–something CIOs can’t afford when tech talent is in short supply. Fortunately, in a section of the recent book, “Your First Leadership Job: How Catalyst Leaders Bring Out the Best in Others” (Wiley/April), authors Tacy M. Byham and Richard S. Wellins introduce relatively easy but effective ways for managers to engage employees. In most cases, they’re based upon the “Golden Rule” principle of treating others as you’d like to be treated. By incorporating them into your daily encounters, you’ll increase the likelihood for ROI-benefiting results: Numerous studies demonstrate that organizations with highly engaged teams are more profitable and productive, with a greater degree of customer satisfaction. “The quest for engaged employees is a mantra at many organizations these days, possibly yours,” according to the book. “It evokes questions such as these: Are people showing up energized and ready to work? Feeling hopeful about the future? Bringing their best effort to the table? … Employee engagement and retention are more than just buzzwords—they’re real vehicles for measuring the health and potential of any company.” The following simple ways to engage employees are adapted from the book. Byham is CEO of Development Dimensions International (DDI), a leadership development consultancy. Wellins is senior vice president for DDI. For more about the book, click here.