Employee engagement is key to a productive workplace; engaged employees are those who are fully invested in their work and the company’s overall mission. Engaged employees are happier, more motivated and more productive than disengaged ones, plus, they have a lower turnover rate — saving time and money for your company. 
In light of employee engagement, the Department of Transportation (DOT) put together a list of ways for managers to improve employee satisfaction and commitment. The DOT compiled this list after studying what leaders of agencies on the “Best Places to Work in the Federal Government” list were doing.
Tom Fox of the Washington Post covers the DOT’s “cheat sheet” for engaging employees. Some of them apply mostly to federal government workers in Washington, D.C., but some can be generalized to a larger audience:
1. “Drop by employee meetings”
Swinging into employee meetings will give you insight into how your employees are working toward your company’s goals; it will also give you a chance to offer your insights and encouragement. Plus, you can see how your employees interact and pinpoint possible future leaders.
2. “Listen to your employees”
Consider holding listening sessions with employees; if you open your ears as a manger and listen to employee perspectives, you will be able to identify areas of improvement for you, your team, and your company.
3. “Let employees know you”
Simply, be transparent. Let your employees know who you are and what you do by sending updates on your schedule or your work to show employees how you fit into the larger company picture.
4. “Report the news”
This goes along with personal transparency; be open and upfront with company news and goings-on. Give good and bad news directly from you to your employees, and don’t let them hear it from another source.
5. “Put on the pedometer and walk the halls”
A great way to get to know your employees and build relationships with your workforce is by simply walking down the halls and interacting with them. You will get to know your employees and they will get to know you, which will foster a culture that promotes engagement.
6. “Let’s do coffee”
Invite employees to join you for lunch or coffee to recognize and reward them for quality work. Recognition is an essential part of boosting employee engagement; let your employees know that their work matters.
7. “Turn your employees into your consultants”
During issues or problems, allow your employees freedom and flexibility to think creatively to come up with solutions for the company; then, make sure to give them the resources to carry out their solutions.
What are some other tips for creating engaged employees? Share with is!
