Why and How to Improve

Employee Engagement By Andrea Sugden

Introduction

Andrea Sugden serves as senior vice

president of national accounts with

Adecco, a global staffing firm. Having

held this role for nearly five

years, Andrea Sugden commands an

in-depth knowledge of the employee-

employer dynamic and awareness of

what goes into a long-term work

relationship.

About Employee Engagement

In a workforce where 18 percent of employees are actively unmotivated and disengaged from their work, according to a 2013 Gallup poll, it is essential for companies to cultivate an employee-friendly environment. Disengaged employees are more likely to quit, which presents an expense to the company in filling the position. Studies show that replacing an employee costs the equivalent of 20 percent of that employee's salary, which means that employers have a measurable incentive to keep hired employees on board.

Conclusion

Research into current practices shows that a respect for personal time and connection to employees are among the most crucial aspects of retention. A recent article in Forbes suggests that creating a dialogue with employees can help them to feel more connected and thus more involved in their work. Case studies also show that generous time off and attention to personal needs play a measurable role in engagement. One company rose 20 places on Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For when employees began receiving paid sabbaticals.