The Secret Weapon for Higher Employee Engagement: Purpose

How the Pursuit of Purpose Drives Productivity

Did you know that feeling connected to a sense of purpose is the largest contributor to overall employee wellbeing? Insights from OneDigital’s Employee Value Perception Study show that employees consistently rank “feeling that my work is meaningful” as the second most important factor driving workplace happiness.

So, what’s wrong with showing up and collecting a paycheck?

Disengaged employees cost organizations billions annually. Feeling connected to a sense of purpose does more than boost overall wellbeing – it can create more loyalty and increase engagement and productivity.

Some careers naturally lend themselves to making an easy connection to meaning and purpose. Teaching, caring for the sick or elderly, working with children and shaping the future, saving the environment, non-profits, and public service are examples of careers where employees may have felt inspired to serve the greater good. Finding meaning or inspiration in stocking shelves, mopping floors or answering phones may pose a greater challenge.

How can employers help employees find purpose and meaning in their job?

1. Communicate your company’s mission statement and purpose.

Even employees that play more of a supporting role or contribute behind the scenes can pride themselves on being a part of something bigger than themselves. Think of ways you can highlight serving others, relationships, customer experience and your company mission statement, vision and values.

2. Recognize that not all employees find their sense of purpose through their careers.

Find ways to celebrate, recognize and support personal accomplishments such as life events, hobbies and employee aspirations to further professional and personal development. Launch an employee spotlight program or highlight milestones and accomplishments in a company newsletter. Employers can support employee purpose by offering family care benefits, tuition reimbursement, infertility benefits, or lifestyle benefit platforms that allow employees to choose how to spend their wellness dollars, such as towards hobbies or interests that are meaningful to them.

3. Create opportunities for employees to connect to their sense of purpose in the workplace and connect to each other.

Wellness, leadership, event planning, spearheading employee resource groups, and mentorship are all relevant activities that can lend a platform for employees to tap into hidden talents and passions. Even though employees may not feel passionate about their actual job, giving them a platform to tap into other skills and interests can generate passion for their company and fulfillment from their job.

4. Acknowledge that some employees are meant to be with you for just a season.

Some employees may be on a mission to pursue their passion, and while their interests and desires may not meet the needs of the company long-term, it can be helpful to maximize the enthusiasm and spirit of these employees by supporting their goals and encouraging transparency.

5. Be a purposeful organization.

Regardless of the industry, employees are drawn to companies with a sense of corporate social responsibility. Employees are more likely to stay with an employer longer if the employer shows a high level of social responsibility. Lead by example when it comes to getting involved in your community and encourage employees to do the same through company-sponsored events, paid time off to volunteer and matching charity donations. Employees who feel connected to the community where they live, work and play have an overall higher level of wellbeing!

Understanding Employee Value Drivers is Key to a Thriving Workforce

Helping employees connect to a sense of purpose can impact more than just employee wellbeing. Employees that are connected to a sense of purpose are more intrinsically motivated, vs performing just to receive that bonus. They are also more loyal to their employer and are driven by feeling a sense of ownership and accountability.

For more information on how to gain insights into the needs of your employees, contact OneDigital to learn more about the Employee Value Perception Study.