Spending on employee engagement pays dividends

© Kurhan – 123RF.com

Rather than increasing salaries in an attempt to garner happiness (considering that remuneration has never been proven as an indicator of happiness), why not budget for true engagement that will lead to a productive workforce?

An employee's salary is a monthly expense, whether they have performed at 60%, 80% or 100%, the same amount must be paid. Financially, it makes sense to ensure that the salary being paid out is being paid to an employee that is happy, focused and productive.

Despite the costs, it is essential to remember that staff are a company's greatest asset, most persuasive brand ambassadors and, if loyal, engaged and happy, the most reliable source of income. With that in mind, not putting budget in place to ensure that employees are content is often an otherwise well-run organisation's biggest downfall.

Employee engagement traditionally focuses on physical wellness campaigns. These campaigns tend to be costly, with low compliance, compounding the frustration of a lack of return on investment. Modern employees are not interested in complying with outdated forms of employee wellness; the business world is not what it was a decade ago, yet the same engagement tactics are being utilised. To rejuvenate employee happiness, increasing productivity and profitability, a revitalisation of engagement approaches must be implemented.

The reality is that a healthy employee is not necessarily happy, but a happy employee is most often productive. One of the most prosperous companies in the word, Google, has mastered the art of creating fun, happy environments for its staff - its success speaks volumes. This can be achieved through employee wellness campaigns that focus on mental health and contentment. Workshops that encourage movement, laughter and cohesive teamwork, for example, promote a scientific brain reaction that facilitates cheerfulness, leading to efficiency.

If you are already spending money on having staff at the office, why not engage them in a meaningful way, creating a positive environment and boosting profits.