What Is Employee Engagement—and Why Does It Matter?
Employee engagement is about how much someone genuinely cares about their work and the company’s goals. It’s not just about being happy or satisfied—it’s that deeper emotional commitment to doing meaningful work and contributing to something bigger. As Forbes puts it,
“Engagement is the connection employees feel with their organization.”
But here’s the challenge: Keeping employees engaged today is harder than ever. With remote work, hybrid models, and constant tech distractions, it’s easy for people to feel disconnected. Gallup found that only 33% of employees were engaged in 2023, meaning most workers weren’t fully invested in their jobs. Why?
For many, it comes down to burnout, unclear expectations, or taking on tasks they didn’t sign up for. If someone doesn’t even understand their role, how can they stay engaged? And to make matters worse, Gallup also reported that 70% of managers aren’t trained to lead hybrid teams—creating even more disconnect.
At its core, employee engagement drives productivity and loyalty. Incorporating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) into engagement efforts can foster an environment where every employee feels valued and connected. Engagement is not just about a happy workplace; it’s about building a team that thrives together. It’s about leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve success.
Why Employee Engagement Is Non-Negotiable
When employees check out, everyone feels it. The quality of work slips, turnover skyrockets, and productivity tanks. Disengaged employees are more likely to leave, which means the company has to deal with costly hiring, training, and lost expertise.
On the flip side, engaged employees are the heartbeat of any successful company. They show up with purpose, take ownership of their roles, and inspire their teammates. They don’t just do their job—they do it with passion and a drive to succeed.
A strong focus on DEIA in engagement strategies ensures every employee feels included and empowered, amplifying their ability to contribute to a positive work culture. Engaged employees who see DEIA principles in action are more likely to collaborate effectively, advocate for their organization, and innovate with confidence.
Beyond culture, engagement fueled by DEIA creates a resilient organization where diverse voices lead to innovative solutions and adaptability in the face of challenges. Companies that embrace this approach build trust, foster loyalty, and remain competitive in an evolving workplace.
Top Ways to Improve Employee Engagement Safety
Support Mental Health in the Workplace
If employees aren’t in the right state of mind and lack support, it can become challenging for them to perform at their best. Offering mental health resources, such as counseling services, wellness programs, or flexible work options, can make a significant difference. A supported and balanced mind leads to a more productive and engaged team.
Promote Employee Well-being and Work-Life Balance
There’s more to life than work, and a healthy work-life balance is critical for keeping employees engaged. Encourage and reassure your employees that setting boundaries is important. Consider offering flexible schedules and fostering a culture where taking breaks and prioritizing personal well-being are normalized. A well-rested, healthy employee is more engaged, creative, and motivated to succeed.
Model Your Mission and Core Values
Your mission and values shouldn’t just live on paper—they need to show up in what you do every day. When employees see their leaders actually living those values, it inspires them to do the same. Set the tone, and your team will follow your lead. This should include your commitment to DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) initiatives.
Leaders must actively champion diverse perspectives, ensure equitable opportunities, and create an inclusive environment for all employees. By prioritizing DEIA in hiring, fostering respect and belonging, and providing equal access to resources, leaders demonstrate these values daily. This not only sets a strong example but helps integrate DEIA into the company culture, driving engagement and innovation.
Encourage Open Feedback and Two-Way Communication
Communication is key to fostering engagement. Employees should feel comfortable sharing questions, concerns, and ideas without fear of judgment. At the same time, leaders should clearly communicate goals, expectations, and updates. By embedding DEIA into feedback systems, organizations can ensure every voice is heard, valued, and acted upon, building a culture of trust and collaboration.
Recognize and Reward Employees, While Supporting Their Growth
Showing employees that their work matters goes a long way. Whether it’s a simple “thank you,” a shoutout in a meeting, or a well-deserved promotion, recognition makes a big impact. On top of that, investing in their growth—through training, certifications, or sending them to conferences—shows you’re serious about their future. When employees feel valued and see a clear path to grow, they stay engaged and motivated.
Conclusion
Employee engagement is more than a buzzword—it’s the foundation of a thriving organization. When employees feel supported, connected to the mission, and valued for their contributions, they’re not just more productive; they’re more committed to the company’s success. Incorporating DEIA into engagement strategies creates an environment where all employees can flourish, driving innovation and collaboration across teams.
Prioritizing engagement isn’t just good for employees; it’s essential for long-term success. Companies that invest in inclusive engagement practices retain top talent, foster creativity, and build resilience in an ever-changing world.
How We Can Help
At Project 2043, our vision is a society where opportunity and access are equitable, and the inclusion of people with various racial, gender, ability, age, and other characteristics are normalized and intentional. To learn more about how Project 2043 can support your goals for employee engagement, please contact us today.
The Foundation of Belonging: Why Psychological Safety is Key to an Inclusive Workplace