Why employee engagement must be your focus for 2024

Gallup’s latest findings reveal an alarming $9 trillion global productivity loss attributed to the phenomenon of silent disengagement in workplaces. This study underscores that a significant portion, six out of ten workers, fall into the category of “quiet quitters” – individuals investing no more effort in their roles than the bare minimum required. As a leader, the question beckons: is this level of disengagement acceptable to you? Moreover, consider the potential transformative impact on your firm’s operational efficiency and financial objectives that could result from an improvement in productivity. This article aims to explore why the emphasis on engagement is not only essential but should be a top priority, outlining actionable steps for its enhancement.

The often-underestimated aspects of engagement and organisational culture are frequently perceived as intangible or “fluffy” by leaders, leading to the oversight of associated costs linked to poor culture and disengagement.  Drawing from my experience as a former head-hunter, I’ve encountered numerous instances where departing candidates disclosed genuine reasons for leaving, such as issues with management, feeling undervalued, or a perceived lack of career progression. Regrettably, many companies overlook the valuable opportunity presented by exit interviews, neglecting a deeper understanding of the employee experience.

At the heart of employee engagement lies an emotional connection with the organisation, fostering a willingness among employees to go above and beyond their basic job requirements. The crucial components of feeling valued, respected, and trusted contribute not only to a more positive team spirit but also create an enriched working atmosphere where people feel psychologically safe.  While having content and happy employees is undoubtedly beneficial, the tangible impact extends further. Gallup’s extensive study of 2.7 million workers across 100,000 teams provides compelling evidence – a 10% surge in customer loyalty/engagement, an 18% spike in productivity (sales), and an impressive 23% increase in profitability.

Despite the compelling evidence supporting the notion that employee engagement significantly contributes to organisational growth, there remains a notable oversight among senior leaders who do not dedicate sufficient time to developing effective engagement strategies. In my perspective, the absence of a structured process to measure and manage engagement places firms at considerable risk, both in terms of reputation and financial stability, potentially culminating in the emergence of a toxic organisational culture.

To address these risks, consider the following nuanced tips for the development of effective engagement strategies:

1. Live by your values: Exemplary leadership involves not only articulating values but consistently embodying them. Values, when integrated into daily work interactions and conflict resolution, become a guiding force for the entire organisation.
2. Develop a culture of learning: In the context of law firms with limited promotion avenues, incentivising teams through avenues for professional development is key to reaping numerous benefits.
3. Check in with team managers: Recognising the heightened vulnerability of team managers to burnout, given their dual responsibilities of team and client development, is crucial. Regular check-ins provide a platform for support and insight.
4. Communicate effectively: The evolving landscape of flexible work arrangements necessitates fair treatment of both remote and in-office teams. Establishing clear communication channels ensures inclusivity and transparency.
5. Have fun as a team: Fostering a positive working environment goes beyond mere productivity. Encouraging team bonding activities contributes to enhanced teamwork, creativity, and overall job satisfaction.

In conclusion, the implementation of these nuanced strategies collectively aims to cultivate a workplace culture where engagement is not merely a concept but a lived experience. Leaders who embrace these principles stand to attract, retain, and motivate a high-performing workforce, ultimately steering the firm towards sustained success.

Andre Thomas, Founder of Thomas Telman