In the ever-spinning world of the workplace, there are two kinds of employees: the Engaged, who bring their A-game every day, and the Disengaged, who… well, don’t. But let’s get something straight—being engaged isn’t about being chipper or content. It’s a whole different ballgame.
As Hannah Price, the sage of workplace sentiment, says, “Engaged employees are the ones who face challenges head-on. They don’t just do their jobs; they own them and are determined to do whatever it takes to help their company succeed.”
So, how do we get more of these go-getters around? The answer might just be artificial intelligence. Yes, you heard right. Companies are now using AI to measure and enhance the work environment. It’s like having a high-tech mood ring for the office! But here’s the kicker: we’re missing a key player in this algorithm—the employee’s “plus one.”
The “plus one” isn’t a date to the company gala; it’s the spouse, the best friend, the roommate who’s the behind-the-scenes MVP. They’re the unsung heroes, the ones offering a pep talk before a big meeting or lending an ear after a rough day. They may not be on the payroll, but they’re doing some heavy lifting in the morale department.
These folks have clout. They’re the unofficial counselors, the homefront managers, and their word can carry more weight than a company memo. Their thumbs-up or thumbs-down on an employee’s job can tip the scales on engagement faster than a new policy or perk.
So what’s the game plan? It’s simple: Know them, include them, and maybe even toast to them at the next company celebration. They might not be in the office, but they’re definitely in the know. And if you want to unlock the secrets to a truly engaged workforce, you might want to start sending a “plus one” invite to your company’s big picture.
Ready to dive deeper into the heart of employee engagement and decode the mysteries of the “plus one” phenomenon? Let’s chat. I’ve been navigating the community health management maze for 25 years, transforming underperforming entities into star performers. My latest venture, Project ItyÂ, is shaking up the healthcare scene across the U.S. and Canada. Discover more about our mission on LinkedIn, follow our adventures on social media, and let’s start a conversation that could transform your team. Reach out to me, Gary Larcenaire, at gary@ityahealth.com for a consultation that might just be the game-changer your organization needs.