Fun at work can get staff engaged

Mar 28 2008 by Aled Blake, Western Mail

ENGAGING employees is the biggest challenge facing senior managers, a business expert has told Welsh bosses.

Speaking during the latest round of the Welsh Assembly Government’s People in Business seminars, internationally renowned change consultant Marcus Child said a survey by Gallup revealed only 19% of UK employees felt engaged with their work, while 61% were not engaged and 20% were actively disengaged.

Mr Child told Welsh business leaders they needed to overcome this barrier by giving further encouragement to employees who are committed to the business in order to motivate others.

“Evidence suggests that when engaged staff succeed and achieve bonuses, pay rises and promotions, the unengaged majority will want to emulate them,” said Mr Child during seminars at St Asaph, Caersws, Swansea and Cardiff.

“Unfortunately there will always be those who are disengaged and while you should not give up trying to motivate this group it’s equally important not to spend a disproportionate amount of time and resources on them either,” he added.

He also told managers they needed to nurture resourcefulness in individuals, foster positive relationships between colleagues and promote trust between the organisation and its customers.

Mr Child said, “While we need to be serious about business we shouldn’t take ourselves too seriously. Workplaces that get the best out of their people are fun and exciting places to be.”

The Welsh Assembly Government’s People in Business seminar programme involves master classes by prominent UK business figures.

The events also provide a networking opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs as well as find out about the business support available from the WAG.

For further information about People in Business seminars contact Rebecca Jones on 01686 620 231, or email rebecca.jones4@wales.gsi.gov.uk