Every business leader dreams of having a company that runs like clockwork. One with a complete team of highly reliable, timely and responsive, honest and hardworking employees guided by the organization’s mission and goals. Such a vision may seem impossible for every business. However, the key to building such a dream team is to consider a simple question. What makes employees feel valued?
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In today’s hyper-competitive business landscape, many employees suffer from burnout, poor morale and productivity, and job dissatisfaction. This has resulted in high employee turnover rates for many companies. When asked how the pandemic has changed how they feel about work and life, more than 50% of workers said they questioned the value and purpose of work, as well as the expectations of their employer.
While Lattice’s employee engagement survey found that the need to feel a sense of belonging is generational, others note that employees are more likely to be engaged, productive and committed to the company’s growth when they feel valued.
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If you want to add more value and retain top talent, this article will discuss tips to make employees feel valued. This ultimately improves workflow and overall success internally.
1. Share employee stories
Employee stories have been found to be one of the most effective strategies for creating an engaging work culture. By giving employees opportunities to honestly share their work and experiences, you let them drive the story. Plus, it gives prospective candidates a more interpersonal perspective on what it’s like to work for a company.
Valuing employees’ work also helps establish a sense of identity for them. It allows for greater connections with colleagues, managers and clients, creating a positive work environment and culture. At the same time, sharing employee stories across media platforms organically shapes the company’s brand identity. It also creates authenticity and connection with the target audience. Essentially creating a symbiotic relationship that is highly valued by both managers and employees.
2. Give regular, constructive feedback
A 2018 Harris Interactive Survey for Glassdoor found that “67% of employers believe retention rates would be higher if candidates had a clearer idea of ​​what to expect at a company before they start a job.” For employees, this often includes the expectation of management that values ​​communication and the professional growth of its workforce.
While recognition for your hard work is good, people also want to know how to improve. Or, they want to know where they’re falling short so they know they’re on the right track. Providing regular, constructive feedback each month is a great opportunity to speak one-on-one with employees and entire teams.
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Meanwhile, while regular meetings with office and remote employees are a great way to provide consistent feedback opportunities, leaders should also consider holding feedback sessions to discuss business strategies and performance or quarterly meetings to share new ideas and learning experiences.
3. By giving corporate gifts, say: “You are valued here.”
While giving gifts during important achievements or professional (or personal) milestones is appreciated, employees feel more respect and appreciation when they are thought of at other times. Simple gestures can have an even bigger impact in times of stress, providing employees with a sense of appreciation and care when they are sick or on medical leave.
While a shared gift basket is always an option, you can also opt for more personalized care packages that will really make them feel loved. Along with your get-well wishes, companies like Spoonful of Comfort offer a variety of gift baskets that include delicious soups, desserts, and comforting items. They also allow you to create a personalized gift basket or care package that fits the needs of your employee or corporate team.
4. Support social shoutouts and events
Especially in today’s shared hybrid and remote work environment, employees often feel disconnected from their colleagues. In turn, this creates a disengaged team and a fragmented culture. According to a recent study, companies see that only 15% of employees are actively engaged due to dissatisfaction and dissatisfaction with their work, i.e. not being recognized.
However, companies whose employees are recognized for their commitment to the company’s goals and consistent motivation in their work ensure a 202% increase in performance results. It’s great to express gratitude for big accomplishments throughout the year. But also praising small contributions and achievements can be just as valuable to an employee.
5. Invite an open door policy
Having an open door policy is an effective way to encourage open communication and feedback. This also includes discussing any questions, complaints, suggestions and challenges faced by employees.
Former Xerox CEO Anne M. Mulcahy once said: “Employees who feel that management cares about them as a whole person, not just an employee, are more productive, satisfied and satisfied. Happy employees mean satisfied customers, which leads to: profitability”.
You want to give them the opportunity to speak up at any time. Also, allow them to create a responsible, transparent and trustworthy environment. At the same time, set some parameters around an open door policy. This way you value and respect everyone’s time. In addition, managers actively listen to what their employees have to say.
6. Encourage professional growth
While you want to do everything you can to retain talent, employees should also feel free to expand their professional growth. Even if they move on to other greener pastures in the future. Achieving this comes in many ways. These include educational incentive programs, a global benefits and rewards platform, or offering company training for career advancement. When they feel supported in their professional development, they are more likely to work hard for your company. Plus, they gain valuable experience along the way.
At the end of the day, making sure your employees feel valued will create a culture of appreciation. Take the time to express your gratitude to your workforce and see what a difference it can make.