Only 34 percent of workers in the U.S. say they’re fully engaged at work, even though this is actually better than in past years. This means there’s plenty of room for employers to step up their game.
The software you use to collaborate with and manage employees can significantly influence their engagement and productivity. Each company and team will have unique needs for productivity tools. If you’re looking to keep your employees motivated and connected to your mission, consider these points:
**Make Sure It’s Adaptable to Different Working Styles**
Not everyone works the same way. Some prefer working independently and using instant messages for quick exchanges or collaborating on documents online. Others might like scheduling phone calls or using software to set up in-person meetings. Your ideal software should be versatile enough to support these different working styles, allowing people to choose the methods that best suit them.
**Use It to Share Big Goals with Team Members**
Productivity software isn’t just for small, day-to-day tasks. Many project management tools let users set big goals and break them down into smaller tasks. This not only keeps you organized but also helps your team see the bigger picture. Most employees today want their work to be meaningful. Seeing significant goals regularly can make them feel more connected to the smaller tasks they handle daily.
**Encourage Two-Way Communication**
The software you use should facilitate two-way communication. If you want employees to feel empowered, they need easy ways to reach out to you or other managers. Different software offers these features in different ways. You might want one with a chat feature or the ability for users to comment or provide feedback on documents or projects. Ensure there’s a clear process for employees to contact you and make sure they know how to use it.
**Support Telecommuters**
Currently, more than 3 percent of the U.S. workforce works from home at least half the time, and this number is growing. Nearly half of employees and job seekers say remote work options are important when choosing a job. Offering telework opportunities can help you attract and retain top talent. Features like video chat, real-time updates, and virtual meetings can keep employees productive even when they’re not in the same physical space as the rest of the team.
**Ask for Their Input**
A straightforward way to keep employees happy and feeling empowered is to ask for their input. They might not always know the best answer, and different team members might have varying opinions, but it’s crucial to gauge what they need for their productivity. You can survey them occasionally, asking about areas where you can improve. If you notice common themes, dig deeper to understand more so you can implement changes that will help your team—and your business—be as productive as possible.
