The ability of any organisation to engage its workforce, particularly during difficult times, is critical to its success. When workers experience inspiration, appreciation, and involvement at work, they are more likely to be innovative, productive, and committed to the goals of the organisation.

According to a recent Gallup study, barely 33% of workers worldwide are actively involved in their work. This suggests that a good number of employees are disengaged either consciously or unconsciously. Particularly HR managers have to act to increase employee involvement in demanding situations.

These ten HR initiatives will assist you in negotiating this road and increase employee involvement in trying circumstances:

1. Regular “Check-in” Meetings

In challenging times, regular “check-in” meetings can make a significant difference to employee engagement and overall morale. These short, weekly sessions—lasting just 10 to 15 minutes—allow managers to touch base with their team members, listen to any concerns, and offer guidance and support.

The aim isn’t to monitor every detail but rather to provide a welcoming space where employees feel that their voices are genuinely heard and appreciated. When team members know their opinions count, they’re much more likely to remain engaged and motivated. Additionally, these catch-ups provide managers with the chance to acknowledge successes, address any issues, and ensure everyone is aligned on priorities.

By making time for these regular, informal check-ins, managers can show that they truly care about their team’s well-being and professional development. Whether it’s a quick video call or an in-person chat, these meetings are an easy yet powerful way to foster trust, strengthen connections, and keep communication open across the team.

2. Recognition and Reward Programmes

Recognition matters—especially when times are tough. Employees want to know their hard work is being noticed and valued, and even a simple “thank you” can go a long way. Acknowledging achievements doesn’t just boost morale; it’s a powerful motivator. Allowing employees to nominate their peers for recognition brings additional value, as it encourages camaraderie and highlights those who truly embody the company’s values in their everyday work. Whether it’s a quick shoutout in a team meeting or a feature in the company newsletter, peer-driven recognition fosters a deeper sense of appreciation.

If your budget allows, small rewards such as vouchers or an extra day off can further enhance the impact of these gestures. It’s not about grand displays; it’s about ensuring that employees feel seen and appreciated for their contributions and values. When people feel valued, they’re far more likely to stay engaged and committed, even during challenging times.

3. Implement Flexible Working Arrangements

Like many other nations, New Zealand has come to value flexible work. Providing work-from---home choices or flexible schedules can increase involvement especially in cases of high external stress. Many workers are juggling extra duties at home, thus allowing them the freedom to control their time will help to increase their output and satisfaction.

The 9-to-5 grind isn’t the only way to get things done anymore, especially in today’s world. Offering flexible working arrangements—whether that’s remote work, flexible hours, or even a four-day work week—can make a huge difference to your team’s engagement levels. Many Kiwis are juggling family commitments, personal projects, or simply trying to cope with stress during tough times.

4. Invest in Training and Development

When uncertainty looms, employees often worry about stagnation or even regression. Offering learning and development opportunities can help ease these concerns by ensuring that team members feel they’re still growing and progressing, even during challenging times. Initiatives like lunch and learn sessions, skill-sharing workshops, and internal mentoring programmes allow employees to build new skills in a supportive environment.

Not only do these opportunities enhance individual skill sets, but they also benefit the company by creating a more versatile and resilient team. A well-trained workforce is better equipped to tackle future challenges and adapt to changing circumstances, making learning and development investments a win-win for everyone involved.

5. Team Building on a Budget

Building team spirit doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, some of the most meaningful activities can be the simplest—and often cost very little. Consider hosting a board game afternoon, where team members can relax, unwind, and enjoy some friendly competition. It’s a fantastic way to encourage teamwork and get people chatting outside their usual work roles.

Alternatively, a potluck lunch brings everyone together around a shared meal, with each team member contributing a favourite dish. It’s a lovely way to celebrate diverse tastes and cultures within your team. Or, for a more community-focused approach, organise a shared volunteer day for a cause that resonates with your team. Not only does this strengthen bonds, but it also promotes a sense of collective purpose. Even on a budget, these simple team-building activities can make a big difference in creating a positive and connected workplace.

6. Career Development Conversations

Open and regular career development conversations are essential for helping employees see a future within the company. These discussions provide an opportunity for managers to clarify potential career pathways and explore the growth opportunities available to each team member. By outlining possible roles, skill requirements, and advancement steps, employees gain a clearer picture of how they can progress within the organisation.

In addition to discussing goals, it’s also valuable to create experiences that allow employees to actively explore these pathways. This could include job shadowing, taking on new projects, or participating in cross-functional teams. When employees can visualise their career journey and feel supported in achieving it, they’re more likely to stay motivated, engaged, and committed to the company for the long term.

7. "Bring an Idea, Build a Project" Sessions

Encourage innovation and creativity with "Bring an Idea, Build a Project" sessions, inspired by a "Shark Tank" style pitch format. These quarterly sessions invite employees to pitch their ideas on how to enhance the business or improve the workplace. Whether it’s a fresh approach to streamlining operations or a fun social event, no idea is too big or small.

Once a winning idea is chosen, the employee who pitched it is empowered to bring it to life as a small project. With autonomy and creative freedom, they can rally support, make decisions, and see their vision come to fruition. These sessions not only fuel engagement and excitement but also demonstrate that every team member has a voice in shaping the workplace. It’s a great way to harness the collective ingenuity of the team while fostering a culture of ownership and innovation.

8. "Leadership on the Go" Coffee Chats

Ditch the boardroom and take leadership conversations to a whole new level with "Leadership on the Go" Coffee Chats. These casual, informal meet-ups bring leaders and employees together in relaxed settings, whether it’s a stroll around the block with coffee in hand, a pop-up lunch at a nearby park, or a virtual walk-and-talk session.

By breaking away from traditional meeting formats, these chats help dismantle hierarchical barriers and encourage more open, genuine dialogue. A change of scenery can also inspire fresh perspectives and creative thinking. Plus, when leaders engage with their team members in these informal settings, it helps build trust, transparency, and a sense of connection that’s often missing from formal meetings.

9. Celebrating Milestones & Achievements

Celebrating milestones and achievements is crucial for maintaining a positive workplace culture, and it doesn’t have to be a grand affair. Consider creating unexpected "joy moments" that surprise and delight your team. Initiatives like “Random Acts of Appreciation” can bring a spark of joy to the day. For instance, managers can write personalised thank-you notes to express their gratitude or leave small treats on employees’ desks without warning.

These thoughtful gestures not only recognise individual contributions but also foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the team. Celebrating achievements—big or small—helps to reinforce a culture of appreciation, making employees feel valued and motivated to continue striving for success. After all, a little surprise can go a long way in brightening someone’s day and creating a more connected and engaged workplace.

10. Feedback Channels & Surveys

Creating a thriving workplace culture involves more than just collecting feedback; it’s about actively involving employees in co-creating their work experience. Establishing effective feedback channels and surveys allows employees to voice their opinions and concerns, but the real magic happens when organisations engage them in shaping the response.

Utilise team huddles, brainstorming sessions, or small working groups to address the issues raised in surveys. This collaborative approach not only empowers employees to be part of the solution-making process but also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability. When team members see their feedback being taken seriously and acted upon, they’re more likely to feel valued and engaged. By transforming feedback into actionable insights together, you can create a dynamic and responsive workplace where everyone feels heard and invested in the organisation’s success.

Sustaining Engagement Through Challenging Times

During difficult times, employee engagement is not only possible but necessary for an organisation to succeed. Companies who give open communication, flexibility, mental health, and a good work environment top priority will be able to keep their teams motivated and productive even in less than perfect external conditions.

Given the current difficulties New Zealand's companies are experiencing, employers must give employee engagement top priority. These HR projects provide doable plans for building a motivated and useful workforce, helping businesses to survive difficult conditions and emerge stronger. People & Culture is therefore the best choice available to you if you need HR help to help you with these tasks! Contact us to further find out about our HR management offerings.

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