How training can turn engagement around

06/05/09

Since the recession began, our businesses and bank accounts have been suffering under the failing economy. It may be no surprise that the mounting pressure has employee engagement deteriorating at a steady pace.

A national study by Modern Survey late last year found that employee engagement levels are lower than they've been in years, with 21% of U.S. workers actively disengaged.

Fewer workers feel pride in their companies and just about half of those employees surveyed said they are willing to put in any extra effort to see their employer succeed. Research also showed that half of employees plan on staying with their company for an extended amount of time.

Our country's economic troubles have been the lead story in newspapers and websites month after month. Employees are worried about their personal finances and their job stability on a daily basis.

Now is the time when feedback and recognition are needed more than ever before. And it's not without good reason. Poor employee engagement can lead to a rise in unplanned absenteeism, a lack of teamwork, low productivity and depressed morale.

There's not much we can do about the stock market or bank failures, but there is something we can do about how engaged our employees are within our own organizations.

Training can turn things around

Engage employees by giving them opportunities to improve their personal leadership skills or technical skills through focused training. Leadership training could provide a better career outlook for those employees doubting their future with the company. It could give them a brighter outlook on moving up in the company or the ambition to take on new responsibilities.

Keep costs under control by providing in-house training opportunities and put existing resources to good use. Employee mentoring is one cost-effective way to train employees, without having to seek out an outside training course or seminar.

Partner young employees with managers and executives, then have the pairs shadow each other or work on a new project together. Both sides of the pairing will enjoy the change of pace and younger employees will pick up valuable, hands-on leadership training of a caliber that can't be found at any off-site workshop.

Giving employees opportunities to develop their leadership skills will not only improve their engagement, but will also help your business come out on top when the economy turns around for the better.