HR-led workplace initiatives can be incredibly effective at increasing productivity, boosting staff morale and improving employees’ health and happiness.
And yet, with so much good work going into the planning of such projects, many HR professionals still struggle to get workers to take part in a meaningful way.
Well, thankfully, engagement is not something you have to get down on one knee and ask for.
No, all you have to do is follow our five top tips for building greater participation in your HR programmes.
Walk the talk
It’s one thing asking employees to take part in a team-building firewalk, another to kick off your shoes and lead the way across the red hot coals. Similarly, more employees will get onboard with workplace objectives and business goals when they’re seen to be shared equally. So when it comes to volunteering for projects, hot foot it to the front of the queue.
Ask and receive
Not every new staff initiative is going to hit the bullseye but many more will if the HR Manager first asks what employees really need and actually want. Even this simple act of asking for suggestions or feedback will make employees instantly feel more involved. Ultimately, this will also help pinpoint activities that are attractive and do make a difference.
Horses for courses
The Appaloosa, Clydesdale, Shetland pony, our very own s1jobs Unicorn . . . yes, everyone is different and unique. And so, too, with a company – which means a successful HR team will always offer a variety of ways to engage employees. When planning events, for example, take into consideration personalities. Not everyone has the confidence to role play or make a presentation.
Put people in planning
The ultimate success of any programme will depend on employees feeling they’re not an after-thought but an integral part of the entire process. This is why it’s important to involve employees at the planning stage.
Celebrate success
There’s nothing worse than pulling out the stops, achieve a target, and then have your hard work met by . . . silence. When staff members go above and beyond make sure they’re recognised, even if it’s only via a ‘well done’ email or a post on the intranet. Better still, if you really want to encourage employee engagement offer rewards for ideas, initiatives and input.
Why not lead by example by engaging with s1jobs to find a fantastic new role in HR?