Professional
engagement in the workplace has profound benefits for both the organization and
the employee. A
recent Gallup survey demonstrated that only 32% of the American workforce is
"engaged” in their jobs. By that they mean: enthusiastic about, involved in,
and committed to their work. Being engaged at work creates increased production for the organization
and professional fulfillment for employees. But professional engagement is not
only management driven. It requires initiative and mindful presence of each and
every team member to maintain a positive work environment. The following are a
few ideas to help you feel engaged and energized:
Volunteer for tasks and
projects that align with your passions and showcase your talents. When you are engaged in meaningful
work that is aligned with your natural skill set and interest, you are plugged
in on many levels–emotionally and intellectually.
Celebrate and manage
differences. Make
it a point to continually look for the best and brightest characteristics in
those you work with. It is also important to learn, accept and relate to the
communication styles of others for productive conversations and successful
collaborations.
Demonstrate
authenticity. One
important element in workplace engagement is building and maintaining trusting
relationships with both your team and management. This can be achieved by being
authentic to those around you. When your actions toward others are in harmony
with your own belief system, you will be perceived as trustworthy, sincere and
relatable.
Recognize the talents
and accomplishments of colleagues. Celebrating the contributions colleagues builds
comradery and boosts morale. Often their accomplishments enhance the team and
the mission. It can also lead to some friendly competition.
Take a break together. Something as simple as going out to
lunch or organizing a happy hour allows the team to take a break from the
action and discuss interests that are not work related.
Seek out relevant
training opportunities. Choosing relevant learning experiences that align with your current
position can enhance your creativity and strengthen your skill set. Learning is
a continuous life long process. Develop the habit of purposely looking for new
opportunities to further grow and develop your professional competencies.
Manage perceptions. Be open to feedback about both
strengths as well as areas for improvement. Although it can be difficult to receive, try
to focus on how the feedback can improve your skills or relationships with
others.
Practice gratitude. Keep a list in the corner of your
agenda of the positive things that happen throughout the day. Noticing what you
love about work and home will help you set your intentions and priorities.
Engage inpresent-moment awareness. One of the best ways to sustain
professional engagement is to commit to being present in your day-to-day
activities. Take the time to be deeply aware in your work and any task you are
currently tackling. Focus on something
that is going to get you ready and centered for the day. In the same vein, shut down devices and turn
off phone notifications. Constant alerts
can be distracting.
ASK A MENTOR
Professional
engagement is a continuous process that requires conscious "presence” in the
workplace. It also involves support, recognition of others and emotional
intelligence. The next time you meet with your mentoring partner, plan to
discuss the ways in which you can invigorate the team and show that you value
your colleagues. The following are a few topics to consider:
·
How do you perceive some of your
colleague’s differences?
o
What are some of the differences?
o
How do you react or engage with them?
o
Could you improve your methods of
communicating with them?
·
How do you perceive your level of
authenticity with others?
o
Are you open and transparent or are
you guarded or shy?
o
Are your actions towards those around
you consistent with your true self?
·
What are some of the "dream” projects
you would like to initiate or take part in?
o
What steps would you need to take to make
it happen?
·
What are some ways that your office
could build comradery during the day?
o
A monthly potluck? A volunteer opportunity
afterhours?
·
Do you recognize and celebrate the
accomplishments of others?
o
Or do they make your more
competitive?
o
How can you be more gracious with the
milestones of others?
·
What are some training opportunities
that you find of interest and that would be beneficial to your current work?
o
What are the avenues to request and
fund training?
·
How do you manage perceptions?
o
Do you ask for feedback?
o
Do you openly accept it or feel
resentful?
·
How can you share feedback with
others?
o
Do you exhibit emotional intelligence
when doing so?
·
What are some ways you practice
gratitude?
·
How do you stay present in the
workplace? At home?
