Double Dip: Keeping Employees Engaged

Double Dip?

In June, a light switch turned on. The volume of phone calls, emails and requests was turned up. Customers were feeling optimistic. Maybe the worst was behind us?

As summer months continued, the optimism that surged at the beginning of the summer seemed to wane. It was as if the light switch was on a dimmer, and the light was slowly changing. The headlines in the newspapers and nightly newscasters began to question, "Are we headed for a double dip recession?"

Depending on whom you talk to and when, the financial experts' differing opinions abound. So what does this mean for your work environment and keeping your employees engaged?

Keeping Employees Engaged

Fear and anxiety about what is - or what may be - in store can impact your staff's productivity and your customers' behavior. Keeping employees engaged is critical to retaining customers and increasing sales.

Here are five key approaches to keeping your employees engaged:

1. Keep employees informed of: how the company is doing, what strategies for growth are being considered, and what the customers' needs are.
2. Involve employees in solutions. Actively solicit feedback and engage employees in solving customer dilemmas and requests.
3. Gain commitment from employees by giving employees ownership in their roles.
4. Reward employees for contributing proven ideas that impact the bottom line. Make innovation a positive part of your culture.
5. Give opportunities to try new roles and offer job share opportunities to develop new skills while new positions may be on hold.

Looking Ahead

No one has the answer to what the future may bring. By keeping your employees - your best asset - engaged, you will be prepared to move positively in the future while waiting out these stormy clouds a little longer.