As we head into employment survey season, many businesses might be wondering, "Why bother?"
We believe it is an essential element of your people strategy and something you really should be doing. But conducting an engagement survey is just the first step. The real value lies in what you do with the results. Here we share why you should conduct an engagement survey and, more importantly, how to use the insights to enhance your employer brand and value proposition, ultimately attracting and retaining the right talent.

The Importance of Employee Engagement
Employee engagement survey measures the emotional commitment and involvement employees have with their organisation. And we all know that engaged employees are more productive, innovative, and loyal. They contribute positively to the workplace culture and are less likely to leave, reducing staff turnover and retaining business knowledge.
According to recent statistics, only 31% of UK employees are engaged at work. This disengagement costs businesses billions of pounds each year in lost productivity. In fact, the UK remains one of the least engaged workforces in Europe.
Why Conduct an Engagement Survey?
Identify Areas for Improvement: Engagement surveys help you pinpoint specific areas where your organisation can improve. Whether it's communication, recognition, or career development, understanding these pain points is the first step towards addressing them.
Boost Productivity and Performance: Engaged employees are significantly more productive. Organisations with high employee engagement see substantial improvements in profitability, often as much as a 21% increase. By identifying and addressing engagement issues, you can enhance overall performance and output.
Enhance Employee Retention: High engagement levels reduce turnover. Companies that actively engage their employees see an 18% drop in turnover. This ensures continuity and stability within your teams.
Strengthen Your Employer Brand: A strong employer brand is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. Engagement surveys provide valuable insights into how your employees perceive your company. By addressing their concerns and improving their experience, you can build a positive reputation as an employer of choice. This makes your organisation more attractive to potential hires and helps you stand out in a competitive job market.
Improve Customer Satisfaction: Engaged employees provide better customer service, which enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty. Happy employees lead to happy customers, creating a positive feedback loop that benefits your business.
What to Do with Survey Results
As we’ve said, the survey is just the beginning. The real challenge lies in interpreting the results and taking action. Here’s how you can make the most of your survey data:
Analyse the Data: Start by thoroughly analysing the survey results. Look for patterns and trends that indicate areas of strength and areas needing improvement. Use segmentation to understand how different groups within your organisation are feeling.
Communicate Findings: Transparency is key. Share the survey results with your employees, highlighting both the positives and the areas for improvement. This shows that you value their feedback and are committed to making changes.
Develop an Action Plan: Based on the survey findings, develop a clear action plan. Prioritise the issues that need immediate attention and set realistic goals. Involve employees in the planning process to ensure their buy-in and support.
Implement Changes: Take concrete steps to address the identified issues. This might include improving communication channels, offering more recognition and rewards, or providing additional training and development opportunities. Ensure that these changes are aligned with your overall business strategy.
Monitor Progress: Regularly monitor the impact of the changes you’ve implemented. Use follow-up surveys and other feedback mechanisms to gauge progress and make adjustments as needed. Continuous improvement is key to maintaining high levels of engagement.
The Role of Leadership
Leadership plays a crucial role in driving employee engagement. Leaders set the tone for the organisation and can significantly influence the level of engagement among employees. Here are some ways leaders can foster a culture of engagement:
Lead by Example: Demonstrate the behaviours and attitudes you want to see in your employees. Show commitment, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude towards work.
Communicate Effectively: Maintain open lines of communication with your team. Regularly share updates, listen to feedback, and address concerns promptly.
Recognise and Reward: Acknowledge and celebrate employees' achievements. Recognition can be a powerful motivator and can significantly boost morale and engagement.
Provide Growth Opportunities: Invest in your employees' development. Offer training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities to help them grow and succeed.
Create a Supportive Environment: Foster a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and respected. Encourage collaboration and teamwork.
Conclusion
Employee engagement is more than just a buzzword; it's a critical factor that can drive your business's success. Conducting an engagement survey is a valuable tool to understand your employees' needs and concerns. However, the real impact comes from taking action based on the survey results. By addressing the issues identified, you can create a more engaged, productive, and loyal workforce.
At Michelle Denny Recruitment, we understand the importance of employee engagement. Whether you need assistance with conducting surveys, analysing results, or implementing changes, we are here to help.
Get in Touch: To discuss your employee engagement needs and learn more about how we can help, contact us today.
Phone: 01379 779 829
Email: hello@dennyrecruits.com
‘Recruitment Made Simple’ – it isn’t just a process, it’s a partnership.
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