By the same token, an employee can be detached and disengaged regardless of where his office is. It’s possible to reach out to a detached employee, though. With some effort, managers can engage the disengaged worker.

Employees become detached and disengaged when their employers don’t communicate with them. They feel as though they don’t matter enough to merit knowing what’s going on.

Managers can remedy this situation easily. If the employee is in the office, the supervisor should make time to talk to him or her. The communication doesn’t have to be formal – it can start off with, “Hey, how’s it going?” Even a casual question gives the employee the chance to open up and share information. Remote employees can benefit from a variety of instant messaging and video chat programs to make them feel connected with their co-workers.

Everyone likes to be recognized for their hard work. Employees become disengaged when no one tells them they’ve done a good job, or someone else takes credit for their success.

When an employee does something praiseworthy, let him or her know. And share that with his or her co-workers. This action makes the employee feel as though he or she is a valued member of the team and will spur him or her to keep up the good work.

It’s important to remember that you can’t force an employee to become engaged. However, you can most certainly inspire that person.

Inspiring someone to become engaged involves discovering what matters to employees. Facilitate employee communication – establish forums in which they can talk to one another and share knowledge and tips. If employees feel as though their voice matters, they’ll be more willing to disseminate their wisdom.

Employee engagement isn’t something that happens instantly. And it’s also not permanent. It can fluctuate according to circumstances.

What does that mean for managers? They can’t just try once to engage employees. It has to be an ongoing effort. Managers can’t be satisfied if an employee shows signs of becoming more engaged. They have to constantly reach out to that person to make sure he or she is still engaged.

If your employee evaluations aren’t engaged or attached to the work you do, then it’s time to think about something new. We help you find these employees and help them before you lose them.

At Grapevine Evaluations, our 360 degree employee engagement are trusted by companies such as Pandora Radio, Thompson Reuters, and Macy’s. Request a demo today to learn more!