Try these 9 tips to revitalize disengaged employees

The productivity lost to staff apathy costs U.S. businesses about a half-trillion dollars annually. Reversing that trend—in your workplace, anyway—is worth some time and effort, no?

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The quick answer is yes, with invested effort.

Imagine an organization of 100 people. It’s tough to keep everyone engaged. That doesn’t mean—necessarily—that their managers are poor leaders. What causes most disengagement is a failure to understand how to promote high engagement.

Some strategists implement filters that reduce minimal-value tasks and highlight those that promote effective leadership. It’s cost-effective and helps motivate employees. Once such frameworks and objectives are in place, it is easier to convert disengaged employees.

According to a Gallup study, disengaged employees cost the U.S. somewhere between $450 billion and $550 billion annually in lost productivity. A mere 30 percent of employees are engaged at work; the rest just put in their hours or, worse, are damaging within the workplace.

To decipher a company’s engagement level, Gallup asks employees questions like:

The answers tie directly to the organization’s performance.

Here are tips to help you re-engage your employees:

1. Ask questions. Disengaged employees should be heard and encouraged in open forums and office meetings. Asking questions helps share their views and opinions, which could hold the key to your next big idea.

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