Engagement is key as we come out of recession

February 5, 2010

ACAS is publishing a discussion paper this month which is based on the MacLeod report carried out last year, which highlights four key areas or ‘enablers’ that are important in achieving high levels of employee engagement.

ACAS are highlighting employee engagement as something that should be a high priority for businesses as we prepare for a potential upturn in the economic climate, as engaged employees are more likely to remain with the business when more positive times arrive, and will be more motivated and committed to the aims of the business.

The four key enablers are:

  • Leadership – Whether the organisation has a clear vision and where their role contributes to the overall purpose and aim of the company.
  • Engaging managers – respectful attitudes, fairness, clear goals and expectations, encouragement of development and helpful feedback.
  • Employee voice – how much employees feel that their opinions are listened to and taken on board by the company.
  • Integrity – whether the organisation has a clear idea of its values and whether this is demonstrated throughout the company from top to bottom. This can create a stronger sense of trust in the business.

Ed Sweeney, ACAS Chairman said:

“There is plenty of evidence that suggests strong employee engagement can help boost the bottom line. Our advice to businesses is that by engaging properly with staff, organisations will put themselves in a better position to emerge from the recession in a healthy position.”

This is one of the most important objectives for HR and management teams this year, as organisations will need engaged and motivated staff once the economy starts to turn around. A good place to start with this is to measure the current levels of engagement in the business by carrying out a staff consultation or survey around the above themes.

Posted by hrgirl | Filed Under Employee Relations 

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