As an employer, your workforce is your most valuable asset. Without their engaged commitment, your company wouldn’t be able to thrive. But did you know that employee engagement and mental health are closely linked? And it goes both ways! Not only do engaged employees show higher levels of mental wellness, but a psychologically healthy workforce is also more engaged.
Let’s briefly unpack how this cycle works. We’ll look at the meaning of employee engagement, how leadership can cultivate employee engagement and how mental health completes the circle.
What is employee engagement?
Employee engagement refers to employees’ level of involvement, commitment, and enthusiasm for their work and their organisation. Engaged employees are invested in the success of the company and are motivated to go above and beyond to contribute to its goals. Did you know that as little as 14% of employees in the UK are engaged in their work? The majority of employees (83%) are either not engaged or actively disengaged. It’s a cause for concern as disengaged employees can hurt productivity, customer service, and profitability.
How can leadership cultivate employee engagement?
Aligning an employee’s personal and professional goals is an effective way to increase employee engagement. When employees see how their work aligns with their personal goals and values, they are more likely to feel motivated and committed. It improves work-life balance, which reduces stress and burnout. Moreover, loyalty towards the organisation surges when employees sense that their employer cares about them personally and professionally. Increased engagement and reduced turnover are the results.
Mainly, aligning goals enhances their sense of purpose. When employees feel that their work is meaningful and aligned with their personal values, they are more likely to experience that what they do, matters. This outcome leads to higher levels of engagement and job satisfaction. And research is clear about the positive correlation between enjoying one’s work and mental wellness.
How does mental health complete the circle in employee engagement?
Employee engagement and mental health have a cyclical relationship, impacting each other. When employees’ personal and professional goals are aligned, they tend to feel more engaged and motivated. Engaged employees tend to experience better mental health outcomes, including greater job satisfaction and reduced stress. Conversely, poor mental health can lead to disengagement and decreased productivity, worsening mental health further. The interplay between employee engagement and mental health underscores the importance of supporting employees’ well-being by aligning personal and professional goals. Don’t treat people like employees – treat employees like people.
Energy Alchemy understands the importance of relationships and offers services to help organisations cultivate a psychologically healthy and engaged workforce. Partner with us to create a workplace culture that values the whole person, leading to increased employee satisfaction, retention, and overall business success.
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