Every day over two-thirds of American employees go to jobs where they are not engaged with their work.[1] It's difficult to imagine there are that many people who are dissatisfied or not inspired by their jobs. Throughout the world, engaged employees are becoming extinct. In a recent global business study, 85 percent of human resource and business leaders said that engagement is the top issue they're facing.[2] Yet employers know that attentive and invested employees are necessary for business success. There are many ways to encourage engagement and retain excellent employees. Consider these three areas for success:

1. Give more than platitudes – According to a recent Wells Fargo survey,[3] business leaders say maintaining employee productivity is an important short-term and long-term goal. Engagement is a key factor for employee productivity and performance. Employees become engaged with their jobs when they feel their ideas and contributions are valued. Nice platitudes are not enough to genuinely express appreciation for employees' work.

In the past, workers were thrilled to get a paycheck and hear an occasional “thank you” for their work. Today's employees want to make a difference. While they know there are mundane tasks associated with their work, they want to see their ideas enacted and want to know what they do on the job each day positively impacts the business as well as their community. Many businesses encourage employees to volunteer with community organizations, and reward and recognize their contributions. And some employers give employees time to volunteer during the workday.

Instead of relying on employee surveys for information, management team members should get out of their offices and spend time with employees. Get together for lunch, visit during the day and regularly ask their opinions on decisions and business opportunities. Recognize employees for their input when decisions are announced. This type of discussion is stimulating and encourages employees to get involved in the organization.