Employees want a say in deciding the type of work they do,
and whether it’s done virtually or in person.
Are you experiencing staffing issues? Are resignation volumes higher than normal? If yes, you’re not alone as this seems to be an across-the-board situation regardless of the industry you work in.
Having a desirable work culture is not new, nor is the need to keep satisfaction levels high. What has changed for many is being called back into an “in person” work mode; working virtually for many was initially a difficult transition, but once the adjustment was made, it became the preferred work mode. It also, in some cases, became required due to childcare and other family needs.
WorkingFortune Magazine’s Teuila Hanson shares that “employees are happiest when they get to choose where, when, and how they work, with many leaving their existing roles or passing on new roles that don’t provide flexibility.”
As leaders, how much latitude do you have to offer flexibility in the workplace? Can you provide your team members with options regarding where and when they work? Bottom line, we need to know how our employees are feeling and how they view their job. It’s also essential to understand their preferred work mode and the kind of assignments that motivate and inspire them.
So, what’s a good starting point to measure how team members feel? Utilize Gallup’s engagement survey and ask:
- I know what is expected of me at work.
- I have the materials and equipment I need to do my work right.
- At work, I have the opportunity to do what I do best every day.
- In the last seven days, I have received recognition or praise for doing good work.
- My supervisor, or someone at work, seems to care about me as a person.
- There is someone at work who encourages my development.
- At work, my opinions seem to count.
- The mission or purpose of my company makes me feel my job is important.
- My associates or fellow employees are committed to doing quality work.
- I have a best friend at work.
- In the last six months, someone at work has talked to me about my progress.
- This last year, I have had opportunities at work to learn and grow.
- I have flexibility to work from home or in the office.
Employees want a say about their career and flexibility is a must. Use the results from this survey so you better understand how team members are feeling and change what you can to improve productivity and reduce attrition.
If you want to be successful, it’s just this simple. Know what you are doing. Love what you are doing. And believe in what you are doing.—Will Rogers