Complacency in the workplace can have a devastating effect on growth, with Gallup estimating in its State of the Global Workplace: 2022 Report that low engagement costs the global economy US$7.8 trillion and accounts for 11% of GDP globally.
The Gallup findings cite a strong link between engagement and performance outcomes, such as retention, productivity, safety and profitability, noting that business units with engaged workers have 23% higher profit compared with business units whose employees are disengaged.
Ultimately, Gallup notes that the reasons for poor engagement and resulting burnout have one thing in common: a bad boss who ignores, disrespects and fails to support their people. While many companies focus on creating work-life balance to improve engagement, the real fix is better leadership, with managers becoming better listeners, coaches and collaborators.
What can organizations do to improve engagement and reduce burnout?
Organizations should focus on the whole person, not just the person’s work. A well-rounded awareness of how a person is doing can help alert managers to warning signs when someone is becoming disengaged or burned out.
This article appeared in the Fall 2022 issue of Insigniam Quarterlywith the headline “The Real Cost of Complacency.”
To begin receiving IQ, click here.
