A Gallup survey of big business employees provides insights that can help guide managers at smaller businesses.

Employee polling is a powerful tool for gaining insights. While limited resources may prevent smaller businesses from conducting surveys, those done by larger organizations can provide valuable information for all managers. For example, a recent Gallup employee engagement survey “reveal[s] which employee needs are not being met, pointing to clear opportunities to move the needle on engagement.” Here are specific findings from the Gallup report that reveal opportunities for your small business.

Make sure people know what’s expected

44% of the Gallup survey respondents strongly agree with the statement, “I know what is expected of me at work.”

When less than half of employees are confident in their knowledge of what their bosses expect, there’s ample opportunity to engage more employees by making sure expectations are clear and understood. Make sure both new hires and long-term employees are aware of expectations.

Provide employees what they need to do their work

Engagement is tough when only 34% of employees strongly agree with the statement,

“I have the materials and equipment I need to do my work right.”

The opportunity here is to open a conversation with your team to discover what resources are missing for them. In addition to boosting engagement, providing the right materials and tools can lead to higher productivity.

More kudos for good work

When employees were asked if in the last seven days they’d received recognition or praise for doing good work, only 26% strongly agreed.

Managers can increase engagement with the other three-quarters of workers by acknowledging team members’ contributions and being more liberal with kudos. Also, don’t overlook the power of praising employees in front of others; public recognition can be both rewarding and motivating.

Encourage development

Less than a third of the employees surveyed (29%) say there is someone at work who encourages their development.

Making a conscious effort to foster employee development will help engage the 71% who aren’t receiving enough encouragement.

More conversations about progress

In the last six months, only 30% of those surveyed strongly agreed with the statement, “Someone has talked to me about my progress.”

Checking in with employees more frequently on their progress—including success and challenges—would help more than two-thirds feel more engaged.

We can help make positive difference

We believe in making a positive difference in the lives of our members and business partners by sharing tips and tools that have helped make us successful. That’s why we offer access to speakers and seminars on everything from HR initiatives to marketing and money management. Discover how to arrange your own seminar that can help build a more engaged team.

 

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