In a webinar from The HR World and sponsored by Thomas, panelists explored how to spot signs that employees were losing engagement with their work and what could be done to ensure they remained connected and productive as much as possible.
Engage Today: how to fight the disconnection dilemma, highlighted a common, but sometimes unseen hazard in today’s workplace. At a time of complexity and challenge for businesses and their employees a lack of trust and distance can develop. Employees can feel disenchanted with their work and consequently their contribution declines. While the signs of this disconnection can be subtle and unseen at first, there can be serious repercussions if left unchecked.
During the webinar, panelists Kira van Niekerk – Global Connection Director, Thomas and Charlotte (Lottie) O’Brien – Head of People & Culture at Stopford (Jasmine Anderson was unable to attend due to ill health) discussed how the first signs of disconnection could be detected and what HR could do to respond. Working in a small business, said O’Brien, meant that she was generally able to spot when there were issues among her workforce – in a hybrid context it was possible to see when employees seem less connected with their work and the company in general, perhaps even through their non-attendance at in person events.
Kira van Niekerk noted that HR should ensure it has policies and regular check-ins to support the identification of these kind of issues as and when they emerge. Too often what seems to be a low-level inconsequential matter can grow to something more troubling if left unchecked.
Both panelists offered worthwhile solutions to both understanding and countering disconnection in the workforce – whether based on person to person communications or more sophisticated technology based platforms. Among the most important initiatives was to ensure managers were properly trained and skilled at supporting the people they are responsible for. In this way there can always be someone looking out pro-actively to ensure everyone is content and thriving in the workplace.
The webinar is well worth a watch, offering some clear and practical advice on ensuring the entire workforce always stays engaged, happy and productive.
