Creating an effective employee engagement plan in 2025 is no longer optional—it's essential for fostering a positive workplace culture, retaining talent, and driving organizational success. At Matter, we understand the challenges that organizations face in keeping employees engaged, especially in today's dynamic work environments. Whether your teams work remotely, on-site, or in hybrid models, the emotional commitment of your employees is crucial to achieving business goals.
An employee engagement plan goes beyond offering perks or occasional recognition; it creates a meaningful connection between employees and the organization's mission, values, and objectives. Engaged employees contribute more, stay longer, and are motivated to perform their best. This guide will show you the most important steps and tools for creating an engagement plan that makes your employees happier and more productive and fits the goals of your company.
Let's explore how to create an employee engagement plan that empowers your team, supports work-life balance, and drives measurable results.
What is an employee engagement plan?
An employee engagement plan is a structured framework designed to foster emotional commitment and motivation among employees toward their organization. It outlines actionable steps, strategies, and tools that help employees feel valued, aligned with the company's mission, and connected to their roles. An engagement plan enhances overall job satisfaction and performance by addressing key drivers of employee engagement, such as recognition, feedback, career development opportunities, and work-life balance.
An effective employee engagement plan considers the diverse needs of employees across different departments, levels, and work environments. It aims to create an atmosphere where employees are satisfied and empowered to contribute to the company's success. Engagement plans are supported by measurable goals and insights gathered through employee engagement surveys, focus groups, and real-time feedback, ensuring continuous improvement.
Why is an employee engagement plan important?
An employee engagement strategy promotes a happy work environment, boosts productivity, and produces critical business results. It acts as a strategic cornerstone to guarantee that workers are inspired, feel appreciated, and share the goals and principles of the company. Without a well-defined strategy, businesses run the danger of low employee engagement, which can result in lower morale, more turnover, and decreased productivity.
Engagement plans help organizations address critical challenges like disengaged employees and improve employee satisfaction and retention. By implementing structured engagement initiatives, businesses can create an environment where employees are emotionally committed to their roles and the company's success. Engaged employees contribute to innovation, collaboration, and customer satisfaction, making engagement a cornerstone of long-term organizational growth.
In addition, an effective employee engagement plan allows leaders to measure engagement levels through surveys and metrics, ensuring that strategies are tailored to employee needs. It also offers a road map for resolving issues, increasing output, and coordinating group initiatives with more general corporate objectives. Ultimately, an employee engagement plan is a tool for enhancing job satisfaction and a critical driver of organizational success.
5 benefits of an employee engagement plan
An effective employee engagement plan offers transformative benefits for organizations of all sizes, driving productivity, satisfaction, and retention. Here are five key advantages:
1. Increased employee satisfaction
When workers feel like they are valued and linked to their company, they are happier with their jobs. A structured employee engagement plan helps align employees' personal goals with organizational objectives, creating a sense of purpose and fulfillment. When workers are happy with their jobs, they are more likely to stay with the company and help make it a good place to work.
2. Improved employee retention
Engagement plans actively address employees' needs and concerns, reducing turnover rates. By implementing strategies like regular employee feedback, recognition programs, and career development opportunities, organizations can build loyalty and retain their top talent. High levels of employee retention also save time and resources on recruitment and onboarding.
3. Boosted productivity and performance
When workers are engaged, they are more motivated and care about their work, which makes them more productive and improves their performance. An engaged workforce understands how their efforts contribute to the company's mission and key business outcomes. Employee engagement initiatives, such as training programs and team-building activities, help employees stay focused and driven to succeed.
4. Enhanced company culture
An employee engagement plan strengthens company culture by fostering a sense of belonging and emotional commitment. Programs like wellness initiatives, recognition systems, and activities that get workers involved make the workplace a place where people feel supported and in charge. A strong company culture also attracts new talent and promotes organizational goals.
5. Measurable business outcomes
Engagement plans allow organizations to measure success through employee engagement surveys, participation rates, and performance metrics. Companies can find ways to improve their plans and engage their workers more effectively by using tools that keep track of their levels of engagement. This data-driven approach ensures that engagement initiatives contribute to achieving key business outcomes, such as customer satisfaction and team productivity.
An effective employee engagement plan boosts employee satisfaction and drives organizational success, making it an essential tool for any company.
How is employee engagement measured?
It's important to know how workers feel about their jobs, their team, and the company as a whole by measuring employee engagement. By using a mix of tools, metrics, and strategies, organizations can track employee engagement levels and make informed decisions to improve engagement.
1. Employee surveys
Surveys are one of the most effective methods to measure engagement. Tools like pulse surveys and employee engagement survey questions allow organizations to collect feedback on employee satisfaction, workplace culture, and alignment with the company's mission. These surveys provide actionable insights into what drives engagement and where improvements are needed.
2. Engagement metrics
Key metrics like participation rates, turnover rates, and eNPS (employee net promoter score) help quantify engagement levels. Organizations can track these metrics over time to identify trends and evaluate the success of employee engagement efforts. Monitoring performance and retention rates also sheds light on the effectiveness of engagement strategies.
3. Focus groups
Hosting focus groups provides a more interactive way to measure engagement. Employees can share ideas, voice concerns, and discuss how specific employee engagement strategies impact their day-to-day experiences. Focus groups offer valuable qualitative insights into areas where employees feel disconnected or highly engaged.
4. Employee recognition program data
Analyzing data from employee recognition programs can reveal how often employees are recognized and how recognition impacts their productivity. Programs that drive frequent recognition of achievements encourage employees and create a culture of appreciation, which directly correlates with higher engagement levels.
5. Observing team dynamics
Managers can assess how employees interact within their teams and observe participation in team-building activities. Engaged employees are more collaborative, proactive, and aligned with the organization's values. Observations, combined with employee feedback, provide a holistic view of engagement.
6. Performance and productivity reviews
High-performing teams are often composed of highly engaged employees who feel motivated to contribute to organizational goals. Analyzing performance reviews alongside productivity data offers insights into how engagement correlates with key business outcomes and organizational success.
7. Employee engagement software
Using employee engagement tools like Matter to measure and track engagement simplifies the process. These platforms integrate surveys, analytics, and recognition features to help HR teams and managers identify what drives engagement and retention. They also offer insights into the alignment of employees with company values and goals.
Why measuring engagement matters
Measuring employee engagement is essential for creating a workplace where employees thrive. By understanding what drives engagement and addressing areas of concern, organizations can improve employee satisfaction, enhance job performance, and foster a positive emotional connection between employees and their work.
15 employee engagement plan examples
A thoughtful and effective employee engagement plan is the backbone of a thriving, motivated workforce. These strategies tackle workplace challenges and encourage employees to feel valued, appreciated, and connected to their organization's success. By implementing these tailored examples, organizations can foster engagement that aligns with their mission and goals.
1. Launch a peer-to-peer recognition program
Recognition from peers creates a sense of camaraderie and strengthens workplace relationships. Employees feel more valued when their efforts are acknowledged by colleagues, fostering mutual respect and appreciation. A structured peer recognition program can also enhance teamwork and morale, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the organization.
- Use customizable digital kudos cards to celebrate milestones and contributions.
- Introduce monthly or quarterly peer-nominated awards.
- Align recognition efforts with company values for deeper impact.
2. Offer flexible work arrangements
Flexibility in the workplace is a cornerstone of modern engagement strategies. By providing employees with options like hybrid schedules or remote work, organizations empower them to balance personal and professional commitments effectively. This adaptability reduces burnout and builds trust and loyalty within the workforce.
- Offer hybrid work options or compressed workweeks.
- Implement flexible start and end times for better alignment with personal needs.
- Regularly check in with employees to ensure they feel supported in their arrangements.
3. Incorporate training and development programs
Growth opportunities are essential for keeping employees engaged and motivated. By offering skill development, leadership training, or mentorship programs, companies show a commitment to their employees' futures. This improves workforce capabilities and boosts retention by demonstrating the organization's investment in its success.
- Offer reimbursement for professional certifications and courses.
- Provide leadership training for aspiring managers.
- Introduce learning paths for technical, creative, or leadership roles.
4. Conduct regular employee surveys
Surveys are a direct way to understand the pulse of your workforce. They offer invaluable insights into what's working, what isn't, and how employees feel about their roles and the organization. Regularly conducting surveys and acting on the results fosters trust and drives meaningful engagement.
- Use pulse surveys to gather real-time feedback.
- Include both quantitative (Likert scale) and qualitative (open-ended) questions.
- Share results transparently and implement actionable changes based on feedback.
5. Celebrate employee milestones
Celebrating milestones reinforces the organization's appreciation for its people. Recognizing birthdays, work anniversaries, or personal achievements shows employees they are more than just their job titles. These celebrations enhance emotional connections and make employees feel seen and valued.
- Create a public recognition board for milestone announcements.
- Offer personalized gifts or shout-outs during team meetings.
- Tie rewards to milestones, such as extra time off or lunch with leadership.
6. Organize team-building activities
Team-building activities are vital for fostering trust and improving communication among team members. These activities help break down barriers, encourage collaboration, and create lasting memories. Whether in-person or virtual, team-building initiatives make the workplace more cohesive and enjoyable.
- Host team retreats with both work-focused sessions and fun activities.
- Incorporate virtual team-building games for remote employees.
- Plan regular department meet-ups to strengthen relationships.
7. Host focus groups
Focus groups give employees a platform to voice their opinions in a collaborative setting. These sessions provide insights into workplace challenges, innovative solutions, and areas for improvement. By implementing ideas from focus groups, organizations show employees that their input matters.
- Use neutral facilitators to ensure all voices are heard.
- Address key topics like work conditions, growth opportunities, and team dynamics.
- Share outcomes and action plans to build trust.
8. Provide mental health resources
Supporting employees' mental health creates a healthier, more engaged workforce. Resources like counseling, wellness programs, or mindfulness training demonstrate genuine care for employees' well-being. This not only boosts morale but also reduces stress and absenteeism.
- Offer free or subsidized access to counseling and therapy services.
- Host wellness workshops focused on mindfulness or stress management.
- Introduce wellness apps or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).
9. Align roles with organizational values
Employees are more engaged when they understand how their work contributes to the company's mission. This alignment gives employees a sense of purpose and makes their roles more meaningful. Organizations that regularly communicate goals and achievements foster a deeper connection between employees and the company.
- Conduct workshops to help employees connect their roles to company goals.
- Share success stories that highlight individual and team contributions.
- Regularly update employees on organizational achievements tied to their efforts.
10. Encourage leadership involvement
Active involvement from leadership is essential for fostering a culture of engagement. Leaders who communicate transparently, recognize contributions, and participate in team activities inspire trust and loyalty. This involvement demonstrates that engagement is a priority at all levels of the organization.
- Host "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) sessions with leadership.
- Encourage leaders to join team-building activities or recognition programs.
- Train leaders on effective communication and recognition strategies.
11. Create career development opportunities
Employees thrive in environments where they see clear paths for growth. Providing promotions, mentorship, or cross-training opportunities encourages employees to invest in their long-term careers with the company. This focus on development also attracts top talent and retains current employees.
- Establish mentorship programs that pair employees with senior leaders.
- Offer cross-training opportunities to expand skill sets.
- Provide clear guidelines for internal promotions and career advancement.
12. Offer creative rewards and recognition
Recognition efforts that go beyond the standard financial incentives stand out. Personalizing rewards based on employee preferences makes them more meaningful. These creative recognition methods foster excitement and appreciation among employees.
- Create personalized experiences like spa days, hobby-related gifts, or family events.
- Use gamified platforms for points-based rewards.
- Rotate reward options to keep them fresh and exciting.
13. Develop an inclusive culture
Inclusivity ensures that all employees feel valued, respected, and heard. Organizations that prioritize diversity and inclusion create environments where employees are more likely to feel a sense of belonging. A culture of inclusivity also boosts innovation and engagement.
- Host diversity training sessions and cultural celebration events.
- Form employee resource groups to amplify diverse voices.
- Conduct regular inclusivity audits to identify areas for improvement.
14. Host employee engagement games and activities
Interactive games and activities inject fun into the workplace while fostering teamwork. These initiatives encourage employees to connect in lighthearted, meaningful ways. They also provide a much-needed break from daily routines, improving morale.
- Launch fitness challenges or step-tracking competitions.
- Create themed trivia contests related to company values.
- Reward participation with team-based incentives.
15. Implement employee engagement software
Employee engagement platforms streamline initiatives by integrating feedback, recognition, and performance tracking. Tools like Matter provide real-time insights that make tracking engagement and implementing improvements easier. Automating tasks such as surveys and recognition ensures consistent engagement efforts.
- Use the platform to distribute pulse surveys and gather insights.
- Automate milestone celebrations and personalized kudos.
- Track engagement trends with real-time dashboards and analytics.
These employee engagement plan examples demonstrate that even small, intentional efforts can significantly improve workplace satisfaction and performance. By integrating employee recognition programs, team-building activities, and training and development programs, businesses can create a roadmap for sustained success. Whether focusing on employee engagement tools or aligning initiatives with your company's mission, the right strategies will help you achieve a more engaged workforce that drives organizational growth.
Employee engagement plan versus staff engagement plan
When considering workforce engagement strategies, it's essential to distinguish between an employee engagement plan and a staff engagement plan. While both aim to foster motivation, connection, and productivity, their applications differ based on workforce composition and organizational needs.
Employee engagement plan
An employee engagement plan is a structured way to get workers to care deeply about the company and stay connected to it. It focuses on increasing employee satisfaction, enhancing alignment with the company's mission, and fostering long-term retention. These plans often center on initiatives like employee recognition programs, career development opportunities, and promoting alignment with organizational values.
Staff engagement plan
A staff engagement plan broadens the approach by including full-time employees and part-time, temporary, and contract workers. It emphasizes inclusivity and ensures that all staff members, regardless of employment type, feel connected to their roles and the organization's culture. The focus is often on improving workflows, creating cohesive teams, and ensuring effective communication across all levels of the workforce.
Key distinctions between employee and staff engagement plans
1. Workforce scope
- Employee engagement plans target core, long-term employees and aim to increase retention through personalized initiatives like mentorship programs, recognition systems, and employee engagement tools.
- Staff engagement plans consider the entire workforce, including temporary and freelance workers, by fostering short-term motivation and providing seamless communication channels.
2. Engagement focus
- An employee engagement plan is designed to build meaningful, lasting emotional connections that align with organizational objectives and drive employee development.
- A staff engagement plan prioritizes inclusivity, ensuring all team members feel involved and recognized for their contributions, regardless of their employment status.
3. Application of tools and strategies
- Employee-specific plans often use employee engagement software to manage permanent staff recognition, feedback, and performance tracking.
- Staff-focused plans may leverage broader tools like communication platforms or team collaboration apps to unify temporary and full-time workers.
Choosing the right approach
Organizations with stable, long-term teams benefit from implementing an employee engagement plan that fosters retention and employee development. Companies with a diverse workforce, including temporary staff, should prioritize a staff engagement plan that promotes inclusivity and cohesion across roles.
By understanding these distinctions, businesses can implement the right strategies to ensure every member of their workforce feels valued, engaged, and aligned with the organization's goals.
Employee engagement plan for medium-sized companies
Medium-sized companies face unique challenges and opportunities when developing an employee engagement plan. With a larger workforce than small businesses but fewer resources than enterprises, these organizations must strike a balance between scalability and personalization to keep their employees engaged and motivated.
1. Foster a culture of recognition
Implement a structured employee recognition program to ensure employees feel valued for their contributions. Utilizing employee engagement software, medium-sized businesses can streamline recognition procedures, such as commemorating work anniversaries and accomplishments, and promote a positive environment through peer-to-peer praises.
2. Invest in training and development programs
Medium-sized businesses should prioritize training and development programs that align with employee goals and organizational needs. Offering mentorship opportunities, leadership training, and skill-building workshops helps employees grow professionally while fostering employee satisfaction and loyalty.
3. Conduct regular employee surveys
Regularly gather feedback through employee surveys to measure engagement levels and address any concerns. Tailor surveys to specific departments or teams to identify areas for improvement and ensure engagement strategies are targeted and effective.
4. Encourage collaboration through team building activities
Organize team building activities to strengthen relationships among employees and departments. Activities like cross-departmental projects, retreats, or volunteer opportunities can break down silos, enhance communication, and align employees with the company's mission.
5. Leverage employee engagement tools
Medium-sized companies can adopt robust employee engagement tools to streamline their efforts. Tools like Matter allow organizations to centralize recognition, feedback, and performance tracking, providing actionable insights to improve employee engagement and support engaged employees across all levels.
6. Align roles with organizational values
Help employees see the connection between their work and the organization's long-term goals. Regularly communicate how individual roles contribute to achieving organizational goals, ensuring employees feel their contributions are meaningful.
Medium-sized companies can build an effective employee engagement plan by combining scalable strategies with personalized initiatives. By fostering recognition, promoting development, and leveraging technology, these organizations can create a thriving, engaged workforce that drives business success.
Employee engagement plan for large/enterprise-sized companies
Large organizations face unique challenges when developing an employee engagement plan due to their size, diverse workforce, and complex structures. By implementing scalable yet personalized employee engagement strategies, enterprise-level companies can foster a highly engaged workforce and drive organizational success.
1. Implement robust employee engagement tools
Large companies require comprehensive employee engagement tools to manage feedback, recognition, and performance across multiple teams and locations. Platforms like Matter offer centralized solutions for automating recognition, conducting employee surveys, and tracking employee engagement metrics to measure and improve engagement levels.
2. Focus on leadership and employee engagement
In large organizations, leadership plays a critical role in engagement. By fostering transparent communication and providing training and development programs for managers, companies can ensure leaders are equipped to support and encourage employees effectively. Leaders who model the organization's values and prioritize employee well-being can significantly impact engagement.
3. Create personalized recognition programs
A scalable employee recognition program that allows for both company-wide and individual-level recognition helps employees feel valued and connected. Using technology to automate milestone celebrations, peer-to-peer kudos, and team achievements can ensure every employee feels appreciated, even in a large workforce.
4. Use data to drive employee engagement efforts
Companies can use software for employee involvement to gather and look at data from feedback loops, performance reviews, and pulse surveys. This method is based on data, which helps HR teams find trends, address employee concerns, and improve engagement strategies to fit the needs of a diverse workforce.
5. Promote cross-department collaboration
Large companies often face communication barriers between departments. Organizing cross-functional team building activities and collaborative projects helps employees interact, share ideas, and build a sense of community. Collaboration not only boosts morale but also aligns employees with the company's mission.
6. Prioritize wellness and work-life balance
To maintain high levels of engagement, large companies should implement wellness initiatives, including mental health resources, flexible work schedules, and programs that promote work-life balance. Supporting employee well-being helps reduce burnout and fosters a more productive, engaged workforce.
7. Align goals with the organization's values
Regularly communicate how individual and team goals align with the organization's overall objectives. Clear alignment between employee efforts and organizational goals reinforces a sense of purpose and drives highly engaged employees to deliver their best.
Large organizations can build an effective employee engagement plan that fosters a culture of inclusion, recognition, and purpose by leveraging technology, data insights, and scalable strategies. These efforts ensure employee engagement levels remain high, driving long-term success.
Employee engagement plan for remote/virtual and hybrid workplaces
As remote and hybrid work models become more common, creating an employee engagement plan tailored to these setups is essential. Ensuring remote and hybrid employees feel connected, valued, and aligned with the organization's goals can help maintain productivity and satisfaction.
1. Utilize employee engagement tools for seamless communication
Employee engagement tools like Matter can integrate with platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams to provide real-time recognition, feedback, and collaboration opportunities in real-time. These tools help employees feel connected to their teams, regardless of location, and promote employee participation in engagement activities.
2. Encourage regular check-ins and feedback
In a remote or hybrid setting, consistent communication is key. Managers should schedule one-on-one check-ins to discuss performance, offer employee feedback, and address concerns. Frequent touchpoints help build trust and improve employee engagement levels.
3. Celebrate achievements with virtual recognition programs
Implement a virtual employee recognition program that celebrates individual and team successes. Recognition can include shout-outs during virtual meetings, digital kudos cards, or rewards for milestones. Recognizing contributions fosters a culture of appreciation, even from a distance.
4. Organize virtual team building activities
Remote and hybrid teams can benefit from team building activities designed to enhance collaboration and connection. Activities like online trivia games, virtual happy hours, or remote fitness challenges create opportunities for employees to interact and strengthen bonds.
5. Support mental health and well-being
Offering remote workers access to mental health resources, such as counseling or mindfulness training, is crucial. Encouraging flexible schedules and promoting work-life balance ensures employees feel supported, reducing burnout and increasing engagement.
6. Use employee surveys to gather insights
Regular employee surveys tailored for remote teams can reveal engagement trends, highlight areas for improvement, and measure alignment with the organization's values. Surveys help companies fine-tune their strategies and keep remote employees engaged.
7. Align goals across locations
Hybrid and remote teams often work in different environments, but aligning their goals with the company's objectives fosters a shared sense of purpose. Use virtual meetings and regular updates to ensure everyone understands how their work contributes to the company's mission.
By addressing remote and hybrid teams' unique needs, organizations can create an effective employee engagement plan that ensures all employees feel connected and engaged, regardless of where they work. These strategies drive productivity, foster loyalty, and maintain a positive workplace culture.
Employee engagement action plan ideas for all business sizes
Businesses of all kinds need to make an action plan for employee engagement if they want to increase productivity, make employees happier, and keep talented staff members. Whether you run a small, medium, or large organization, these actionable ideas will help you implement effective strategies and foster a more engaged workforce.
1. Define clear employee engagement goals
Set measurable goals for your employee engagement efforts, such as increasing survey participation, boosting recognition activity, or improving feedback response rates. Defining objectives ensures your plan is targeted and aligned with organizational goals.
2. Conduct employee engagement surveys
Regularly gather insights from employees through engagement surveys to understand their needs and measure engagement levels. Use the feedback to identify trends and tailor initiatives to address concerns and improve employee engagement levels.
3. Create a peer-to-peer recognition program
Establish a system that enables employees to acknowledge and celebrate one another's accomplishments. A recognition program fosters alignment with company values, encourages collaboration, and reinforces a positive atmosphere in the workplace.
4. Offer flexible work arrangements
Flexibility is a major driver of engagement. Providing remote work options, compressed workweeks, or hybrid models improves work-life balance and shows employees their needs are valued, helping to increase employee engagement.
5. Prioritize mental health and well-being
Implement wellness programs that include mental health resources, fitness challenges, and mindfulness workshops. Prioritizing well-being helps employees stay healthy, motivated, and engaged.
6. Facilitate professional development
Invest in training and development initiatives to provide staff members room to advance. Workshops, mentorship programs, and online courses support career advancement and show employees their development matters.
7. Align engagement efforts with company values
Ensure all engagement initiatives reflect and reinforce your organization's values. When employees know how their work fits into the company's goal, they are more likely to feel connected and motivated.
8. Use employee engagement tools
Adopt employee engagement tools like Matter to automate feedback, recognition, and communication. These tools streamline engagement processes, making implementing action plans and tracking success easier.
9. Encourage leadership involvement
Leaders have an important role in promoting employee engagement. Encourage managers to actively participate in engagement activities, recognize contributions, and foster open communication.
10. Organize team building activities
Plan engaging team building activities such as retreats, brainstorming sessions, or collaborative challenges. These activities strengthen relationships and improve collaboration across teams.
11. Develop a diverse rewards program
Offer a variety of incentives, including gift cards, extra vacation days, and public recognition. Personalizing rewards ensures employees feel genuinely appreciated, enhancing motivation and satisfaction.
12. Host focus groups for feedback
Organize focus groups to gather in-depth feedback on engagement initiatives and give employees an opportunity to share ideas and concerns. This collaborative approach promotes inclusivity and innovation.
13. Celebrate milestones and achievements
Acknowledging work anniversaries, project completions, and individual accomplishments shows employees they're valued. Use tools like Matter to automate milestone celebrations and recognition.
These employee engagement action plan ideas provide actionable steps for businesses of any size. By concentrating on recognition, feedback, well-being, and alignment with corporate goals, you can foster a vibrant workplace culture that benefits both people and the company.
7 software to help with employee engagement plans
Implementing an employee engagement plan is crucial for fostering a motivated, productive, and connected workforce. The right employee engagement software can simplify recognition, feedback, and collaboration, making it easier for organizations to boost employee satisfaction and achieve their engagement goals. Here are seven top software solutions to help organizations of any size improve engagement, align with company values, and foster a highly engaged workforce.
1. Matter
About Matter: Matter is a leading employee engagement software that makes peer-to-peer recognition intuitive and impactful. Its customizable kudos system empowers employees to align recognition with company values, fostering collaboration and a deeper connection to its mission. With seamless integration into Slack and Microsoft Teams, Matter ensures that recognition and feedback are naturally embedded into daily workflows, boosting employee morale and overall engagement.
Matter main features:
- Kudos platform: Enables real-time, personalized recognition for achievements big and small.
- Employee rewards system: Offers diverse, customizable rewards, including gift cards, branded rewards, and charitable donations.
- Integrated analytics: Tracks recognition trends and employee engagement metrics for actionable insights.
- Slack and Teams integrations: Embeds recognition seamlessly into workplace communication.
- Automated milestones: Celebrates birthdays, anniversaries, and other achievements automatically.
Matter pricing:
- Free Forever: $0/user/month
- Basic: $1/user/month, billed annually
- Pro: $3/user/month, billed annually
- Pro + Surveys: $5/user/month, billed annually
To learn more, view Matter's pricing page.
Matter G2 score: Matter has a G2 score of 4.7/5 based on user reviews.
What Matter customers are saying on G2: "“The setup was extremely easy. It had good UX and interface – people knew how to intuitively use it. The channel got popular in the first two weeks.” - Mathis Bogen, Head of Internal Communications at Bolt.
2. Achievers
About Achievers: Achievers is an employee engagement platform designed to enhance recognition and drive alignment with organizational goals. It offers employees an engaging way to celebrate contributions through real-time feedback and rewards, building a culture of appreciation that encourages productivity and collaboration.
Achievers main features:
- Recognition feed: Showcases achievements and encourages visibility.
- Customizable rewards catalog: Offers global gift cards, charitable donations, and custom incentives.
- Engagement analytics: Tracks employee satisfaction and program success.
- HR integration: Works seamlessly with HR systems for streamlined management.
Achievers pricing: Pricing is not listed on the website. To learn more about pricing, you'll need to schedule a demo/sales call with Achievers.
Achievers G2 score: Achievers has a G2 score of 4.7/5 based on user reviews.
What Achievers customers are saying on G2: "“It was hard to get our leaders to adapt to this. Would have liked to be able to award cash vs. prizes through this system. Employees did not find meaning in prizes as they took away from their take home pay.” - Verified User in Banking (Customer G2 Review).
3. Kudos
About Kudos: Kudos is a social tool for employee engagement that makes connections at work better by recognizing and working together. Focusing on peer-to-peer kudos, Kudos fosters an environment where employees feel valued and motivated, improving team engagement and satisfaction.
Kudos main features:
- Social recognition feed: Highlights achievements and encourages team interaction.
- Customizable rewards options: Tied to recognition programs for meaningful incentives.
- Engagement insights: Tracks participation and engagement trends.
- Mobile-friendly: Ensures accessibility for remote and on-the-go employees.
Kudos pricing: Pricing is not listed on the website. To learn more about pricing, you'll need to schedule a demo/sales call with Kudos.
Kudos G2 score: Kudos has a G2 score of 4.8/5 based on user reviews.
What Kudos customers are saying on G2: “It seems very social media-like, and we all have a lot of that in our lives. That makes it easy to use, but it's hard to drive engagement from inside the team. Integration into our other communication channels would be better. I also really dislike robot verification with the pictures. Sometimes it resets itself so many times I just give up. It also doesn't give an option for people with low vision.” - Verified User in Oil & Energy (Customer G2 Review).
4. Nectar
About Nectar: Nectar is an affordable employee engagement software that emphasizes frequent, meaningful recognition and rewards. Its user-friendly platform allows employees to send kudos and redeem points for rewards, creating a culture of appreciation that drives employee engagement levels.
Nectar's main features:
- Points-based recognition: Let employees reward peers with points for contributions.
- Extensive rewards catalog: Includes gift cards, charitable donations, and branded rewards.
- Custom branding: Aligns with company identity to enhance the user experience.
- Integration with tools: Works with Slack, Teams, and other workplace platforms.
Nectar pricing:
- Plus $5/user/month, billed annually
- Premium $6/user/month, billed annually
- Custom [Book Demo for Quote]
To learn more, view Nectar’s pricing page.
Nectar G2 score: Nectar has a G2 score of 4.7/5 based on user reviews.
What Nectar customers are saying on G2: “An encouraging way to connect with people. It seems like a way to just obtain a reward for sake of false encouragement.” - Verified User in Primary/Secondary Education.
5. Bonusly
About Bonusly: Bonusly is a dynamic employee engagement platform that simplifies recognition through a points-based system. Employees can celebrate peer contributions while redeeming rewards from an extensive catalog, promoting collaboration and alignment with the company's mission.
Bonusly main features:
- Points-based recognition system: Facilitates peer-to-peer recognition with incentives.
- Social recognition feed: Increases visibility for achievements across teams.
- Rewards catalog: Includes gift cards, experiences, and charitable donations.
- Engagement tracking: Tracks participation and measures engagement success.
Bonusly pricing:
- Appreciate: $2/user/month, billed annually
- Connect: $5/user/month, billed annually
- Achieve: $7/user/month, billed annually
To learn more, view Bonusly’s pricing page.
Bonusly G2 score: Bonusly has a G2 score of 4.7/5 based on user reviews.
What Bonusly customers are saying on G2: “We've used the service for years until it has slowly diminished in both quality and usability. We used to have a wider variety of rewards available, which has significantly shrunk to the point where we have one or to options available which are constantly in and out of service. At the time of writing the service is almost unusable and the Bonusly support team have done nothing in terms of informing or providing a clear path to a resolution.” - Verified User in Marketing and Advertising (Customer G2 Review).
6. Awardco
About Awardco: Awardco elevates recognition with its customizable rewards and seamless integrations. Designed to simplify engagement, Awardco enables organizations to align recognition programs with employee engagement strategies, improving morale and satisfaction.
Awardco's main features:
- Customizable rewards options: Includes gift cards, experiences, and prepaid cards.
- Automated recognition: Celebrates milestones and achievements effortlessly.
- Analytics dashboards: Tracks engagement levels and program performance.
- Integration-friendly: Works with Slack, Teams, and other HR systems.
Awardco pricing: Pricing is not listed on the website. To learn more about pricing, you'll need to schedule a demo/sales call with Awardco.
Awardco G2 score: Awardco has a G2 score of 4.8/5 based on user reviews.
What Awardco customers are saying on G2: “Awardco lacks that "extra" element that other programs capture really well. While you can recognize peers, you can't add those extra personalized touches with GIFs and emojis. The over UI of Awardco is lackluster. Compared to others, the branding, company voice, and personality is missing. It is definitely not an obvious point to consider, but, it is something both as an Admin and a user I felt was extremely noticeable. Employees vocalized this thought too.” - Verified User in Computer Software (Customer G2 Review).
7. Vantage Circle
About Vantage Circle: Vantage Circle offers a holistic approach to employee engagement, combining recognition, rewards, wellness initiatives, and surveys in one platform. Its all-in-one design caters to companies seeking to create a comprehensive employee engagement plan.
Vantage Circle's main features:
- Recognition programs: Promote peer-to-peer and team appreciation.
- Diverse rewards catalog: Includes personalized rewards for employees.
- Wellness programs: Enhance employee well-being and satisfaction.
- Engagement analytics: Tracks trends and measures success.
Vantage Circle pricing: Request a demo for pricing. One-time setup cost is applicable on all plans.
Plan options:
- Grow
- Transform
- Enterprise
To learn more, view Vantage Circle’s pricing page.
Vantage Circle G2 score: Vantage Circle has a G2 score of 4.7/5 based on user reviews
What Vantage Circle customers are saying on G2: “The support. I redeemed my points, and it has been two days .. but I'm still yet to receive those points in my account. After reaching out to "need help" section, there was no help provided.” - Akshat G., Sr. Software Engineer (Customer G2 Review).
Developing an employee engagement strategy
Creating an effective employee engagement strategy is essential for fostering a motivated and productive workforce. A well-thought-out strategy ensures that employee engagement efforts are aligned with organizational goals, promote employee satisfaction, and drive business success. Here is a method for formulating a strategy that fosters an enjoyable working environment and encourages engaged employees.
1. Define your employee engagement goals
Start by identifying clear and measurable employee engagement goals. Consider metrics like participation in surveys, recognition program activity, or improved retention rates. Clear objectives help you evaluate the success of your engagement strategy and guide decision-making.
2. Conduct an employee engagement survey
Use employee engagement surveys to learn about existing engagement levels and suggest areas for growth. Surveys help measure satisfaction, uncover employee concerns, and provide actionable data to refine engagement initiatives.
3. Align engagement strategies with company values
Ensure that all engagement efforts align with your organization's values and company's mission. Employees who see how their work contributes to the organization's broader goals feel more connected and motivated to perform at their best.
4. Foster a culture of recognition
Implement an employee recognition program that celebrates individual and team achievements. Recognition fosters a sense of value and appreciation, helping to create highly engaged employees who contribute positively to workplace morale.
5. Provide training and development opportunities
Offer training and development programs that support career growth and skill-building. If workers perceive opportunities for growth and feel their professional development is recognized, they are more likely to stay engaged.
6. Leverage employee engagement tools
Adopt employee engagement software to streamline recognition, surveys, and performance management processes. Tools like Matter help organizations enhance engagement through automation and actionable insights.
7. Encourage open communication
Establish channels for employees to share ideas, voice concerns, and provide feedback. Whether through regular one-on-one meetings, focus groups, or anonymous surveys, open communication fosters trust and collaboration.
8. Promote wellness and work-life balance
Support employee well-being with mental health resources, flexible work options, and wellness programs. Engaged employees thrive in environments where their overall health is prioritized, reducing burnout and improving productivity.
9. Measure and adjust engagement initiatives
Regularly review the effectiveness of your engagement efforts by monitoring employee engagement metrics like participation rates, eNPS (employee net promoter score), and survey results. Use the data to make adjustments and continuously improve your strategy.
Developing an effective employee engagement strategy is a dynamic process that requires commitment and adaptability. Organizations can build a culture that drives satisfaction, retention, and long-term success by aligning initiatives with company values, leveraging technology, and listening to employees.
13 employee engagement strategy examples
Creating a successful employee engagement strategy involves implementing practical and innovative ideas that resonate with your workforce. Here are 13 proven examples to inspire your engagement efforts, boost employee satisfaction, and foster a culture of collaboration and appreciation.
1. Introduce peer-to-peer recognition
Encourage employees to recognize and celebrate each other's achievements through a structured employee recognition program. Platforms like Matter make it easy to share kudos and align recognition with company values, fostering camaraderie and teamwork.
2. Conduct regular employee engagement surveys
Use employee engagement surveys to gather actionable feedback on workplace satisfaction, communication, and overall morale. These insights help tailor your engagement initiatives and measure progress effectively.
3. Organize team-building activities
Host team-building activities such as retreats, problem-solving workshops, or fun challenges to strengthen relationships and promote collaboration among employees. Engaged teams are more productive and aligned with organizational goals.
4. Offer training and development programs
Support career advancement through training and development initiatives that provide employees with new skills and knowledge. This indicates a commitment to their professional development and fosters long-term involvement.
5. Celebrate milestones and achievements
Acknowledge important events like birthdays, work anniversaries, and project completions with public recognition or small rewards. Celebrating these moments builds a positive emotional connection between employees and the organization.
6. Create focus groups for engagement discussions
Set up focus groups where employees may exchange ideas, express problems, and participate in decision-making. This approach promotes inclusivity and helps address issues before they escalate.
7. Provide mental health resources
Invest in mental health resources such as access to counseling, mindfulness apps, and wellness programs. Supporting employee well-being ensures they feel valued and reduces burnout.
8. Align roles with the company's mission
Help employees understand how their responsibilities fit within the company's mission and goals. This connection promotes a sense of purpose and drives motivation.
9. Encourage leadership involvement
Engagement starts at the top. Train leaders to model engagement behaviors, recognize employees' efforts and maintain open communication to build trust across teams.
10. Implement flexible work arrangements
Offer remote, flexible, or hybrid work options to accommodate employee needs and improve work-life balance. Flexibility increases satisfaction and demonstrates care for their personal circumstances.
11. Introduce gamification to engagement programs
Gamify engagement initiatives with friendly competitions, leaderboards, or point systems for participation in activities like wellness challenges or team projects. Gamification makes engagement fun and boosts morale.
12. Host learning lunches and brainstorming sessions
Encourage employees to share ideas and collaborate through informal learning opportunities like lunch-and-learn sessions or brainstorming workshops. These events foster innovation and connection across departments.
13. Use employee engagement software
Leverage tools like Matter to streamline engagement processes, from recognition to feedback and performance management. Technology simplifies efforts and provides insights to continually improve engagement strategies.
These employee engagement strategy examples can assist organizations of all sizes in cultivating a flourishing atmosphere at work, reducing turnover, and fostering highly engaged employees. By combining recognition, feedback, and well-being initiatives, your strategy can lead to measurable improvements in productivity and satisfaction.
FAQs about employee engagement plans
1. How does an employee engagement plan differ from regular HR initiatives?
While traditional HR initiatives focus on administrative functions like payroll and compliance, an employee engagement plan builds emotional connections and fosters a positive workplace culture. Engagement plans are designed to align employees with company values and drive satisfaction and performance, making them an integral part of organizational strategy.
2. What are some inexpensive ways to start improving employee engagement?
For companies with limited budgets, inexpensive ideas include creating peer recognition programs, hosting virtual team building activities, and celebrating employee milestones. Organizing focus groups and offering flexible work options are cost-effective ways to boost employee engagement without significant investment.
3. How does employee engagement impact safety and productivity?
Highly engaged individuals are more likely to stay focused and follow safety protocols, resulting in fewer workplace mishaps. Engagement also improves productivity by fostering commitment and reducing errors, as employees feel more connected to their roles and responsibilities.
4. What role does leadership play in driving employee engagement?
Leadership is a critical component of employee engagement methods. Transparent communication, recognition of achievements, and modeling alignment with the company's mission inspire trust and motivation. Leaders who prioritize employee well-being and open dialogue can significantly improve employee engagement efforts.
5. How do remote teams stay engaged with an employee engagement plan?
Remote teams can benefit from engagement plans that include regular virtual check-ins, wellness initiatives, and tools like employee engagement software. Features such as virtual recognition programs, gamified challenges, and online feedback mechanisms ensure that remote employees feel connected and valued.
6. How can organizations measure the success of an employee engagement plan?
The success of an engagement plan can be tracked using employee engagement metrics, such as survey responses, participation rates in engagement activities, and employee retention data. Monitoring these metrics helps organizations identify areas for improvement and adjust their plans accordingly.
7. How do engagement plans support employee development?
By incorporating training and development programs, engagement plans help employees expand their skills and pursue career growth. Providing mentorship opportunities, offering access to learning resources, and aligning roles with career development opportunities foster long-term engagement and loyalty.
8. What are some examples of engagement initiatives for hybrid workplaces?
For hybrid teams, effective initiatives include virtual recognition programs, flexible schedules, and cross-functional collaboration projects. Incorporating mental health resources and virtual team-building events can also strengthen engagement across remote and in-office employees.
Final thoughts/advice on employee engagement plans
An effective employee engagement plan is the cornerstone of a motivated, productive, and thriving workforce. Organizations can develop an environment in which employees feel valued and engaged by focusing on employee satisfaction, encouraging open communication, and aligning engagement tactics with the company's objective.
To succeed, start by understanding the unique needs of your team through employee surveys and feedback. Use these insights to design initiatives that emphasize recognition, professional development, and well-being. Investing in employee engagement software can simplify and enhance your efforts, providing data-driven insights to measure progress and refine strategies.
Remember, employee engagement efforts are not one-size-fits-all. Continuously adapt your plan to address evolving challenges, such as the shift to hybrid or remote work. Small gestures, such as honoring milestones or providing flexible work arrangements, can have a major impact on developing a strong emotional connection with your staff.
Ultimately, an engaged workforce is a powerful asset. It drives innovation, fosters loyalty, and contributes to key business outcomes. Commit to an engagement plan reflecting your organization's values and goals, and watch your team and business flourish.
Transform your workplace with Matter—the ultimate employee engagement software designed to boost recognition, feedback, and collaboration. Whether you're fostering a remote, hybrid, or in-office team, Matter helps you align your engagement efforts with your company's mission and values. Empower your team with customizable kudos, automated milestone celebrations, and actionable insights that drive meaningful connections and improve engagement. Start for free today and see how Matter can help your organization thrive. Get started with Matter now!
