The pandemic has caused many people to rethink their career goals and consider what they really value in their jobs. This means that companies that want to keep the most talented employees on board need to step up their efforts to make their organizations attractive to today's workforce. This includes fostering a strong sense of purpose in their work and creating an inclusive company culture. Employees who identify with their organization are less likely to leave. A solid internal communications strategy can be a key factor in increasing employee engagement.
So how can you make better use of your internal communications to improve employee engagement? We've identified three key steps managers can take.
1) Involve employees in strategic decisions
Involving employees in decisions about company development is a fundamental aspect of engagement, as employees feel that they are helping to shape the future of the company and their own careers. Investing in the involvement of your employees in strategic issues increases their identification with the company and strengthens the loyalty of your teams. Participative internal communication platforms are ideal for engaging your employees and getting their input as they have the opportunity to give feedback, participate in discussions and share ideas in a collaborative way.
2) Celebrate the achievements of your employees
Employees want to know that their efforts are appreciated. A 2018 SHRM/Globoforce survey found that 68% of HR leaders believe that public recognition has a positive impact on employee retention. Internal communication platforms are a great way to publicly recognize and reward employee performance. Managers can praise individuals within their teams or business units, or in front of a wider audience within the organization. If you already have such internal communication channels in place, this is an easy way to show your appreciation and retain your top performers.
3) Make it easier for your employees to network and collaborate
Employees who feel like they are part of a group are more likely to be motivated to stay with their team. Collaborative work environments and systems that allow employees to communicate seamlessly (from any location) help create a sense of belonging. Again, internal communication platforms can provide a safe and convenient way for your employees to connect, collaborate and develop that team spirit. These platforms are particularly effective when they allow employees to chat informally as well as share important work information. By encouraging frequent, open communication among employees, you can remove many barriers to an enjoyable workplace and help improve the retention rate of your key talent.
