A lot of successful entrepreneurs are brimming with ideas and are naturally adept at looking for problems that need solving, and doing this extremely well. However, amid the excitement, noise and sheer hard work of building a startup, there’s something that risks being neglected—establishing and maintaining an engaged team.
The importance of a staff that is highly engaged cannot be underestimated; in fact, it is at the very core of a bombproof business. A highly engaged team is one that is motivated, loyal and enthusiastic about self-development. It is also resilient and adaptable in the face of change.
Here are five ways to enhance engagement, and develop a top performing team:
1. It starts with YOU
Yes, running a business means a packed diary, but as the business owner you need to apportion time to interact with employees IN PERSON. If your team is small enough, you can set a day each month where you grab a coffee with every individual to discuss not only work matters, but personal ones as well. If you have a larger team, spend time walking around the office and catching up with each member for a few minutes in a GENUINE way. Ask your team members about their motivations and concerns and listen, really LISTEN.
2. Align your business with a higher purpose
Gone are the days when someone simply worked for any company that would employ them and/or pay them better than another one—a lot of employees, especially from the newer generations, need to know that the business they join has its eyes set on more than just profit. With sustainability and greater social issues being so prevalent in today’s world, a failure to recognise and meaningfully engage with these factors will make it very hard to find the talent you desire. Aligning your business to a greater purpose will place an even greater value on the work both yourself and your team are doing, and naturally enhance motivation and engagement.
3. Actively encourage self-development
Make it clear to every team member from their first day of employment that you want to see them grow in their role and will do all you can to provide them with the tools to do so. Whether it’s an online course, seminars or books—if a member of your team identifies something that’ll make them better at their job, let them have it without question. Having employees that care about their own development and want to progress without being asked to do so is an incredible blessing!
4. Recognise and encourage individuality
Everyone’s approach to work and office life is different. Some thrive on structure, others need flexibility; some are extraverts who love a good chat in the kitchen, others prefer to be largely left alone; some want to wear a button-up shirt to the office, for others jeans and a t-shirt is what they’re most comfortable in. A much as your particular business allows, show understanding and malleability when it comes to each individual’s way of working, interacting and dressing. Openness like this not only shows you’re a forward-thinking leader, it makes everyone feel respected for their uniqueness.
5. Remember that engagement extends to your customers as well
With the advent of social media, it has never been easier to meaningfully engage with your customers, and track the results. Use imaginative ways to interact with your customers, and encourage and respond to all feedback, positive and especially negative. Making your customers feel acknowledged and cared for is only going to increase engagement, while adding that extra bit of motivation to your highly engaged staff as well!
- Looking to develop your team and increase employee engagement? Our Team Development days provide you and your team with the tools for positive change, self-development and better performance. Register your interest here.