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Keeping employees engaged is immensely difficult. Many feel overworked and underappreciated, leading to detachment from the job. Employee engagement has been especially difficult since the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

It can be easy to blame things on the pandemic but that is too simple of an explanation. What it comes down to is company culture. Those with positive, strong cultures tend to adapt to their environment and foster that engagement. Companies that struggled with engagement previously find themselves in the same position.

There are a few crucial things to consider when trying to support employee engagement, particularly in virtual work environments.

It Is Important to Care About Employees

During times like these, where a pandemic is raging and personal health is crucial, it helps to feel cared for. When an employee feels like their company cares for them, loyalty is increased and so is overall engagement.

Make sure to check in with employees on a one-on-one basis. It may take a little bit of time, but it shows that their wellness is important to the company. That small act can make a huge difference in engagement.

The Perception Gap

The truly great companies take feedback and know what their employees think rather than simply guessing what may work for them. Feedback is essential in the workplace. It fosters growth and evolution.

Companies need to be transparent and offer open lines of communication. Building that trust and managing the perception gap can help keep employees engaged.

Create a Diverse Culture

Generation Z is one of the most ethnically and racially diverse generations so far. Inclusion and diversity is part of building an overall empowered culture. Many believe that increased diversity will eventually be good for society as a whole.

That means diversity in leadership roles. Employees who can’t see themselves in a leadership position because of race or gender are less likely to be engaged. They will simply skate by doing the minimum because they “know” that they cannot advance. Change that perception and engagement will increase.