We recently hosted our very first episode of the HR GameChangers series, where we explored the new era of employee engagement and dove into the latest emerging trends.

As we discussed these pressing issues, we also highlighted GoProfiles—an AI-powered employee engagement tool designed to help solve the disengagement problem by providing personalized insights and fostering deeper connections within teams.

Watch the entire conversation below, or keep reading for a full webinar recap. 

The New Era of Engagement: Quick recap

First things first, here are the amazing panelists from this episode. We had the pleasure of speaking with: 

• Donald Knight, Group SVP, People & Culture, Warner Bros. Discovery
• Gianna Driver, CPO at Lattice
• Nia Darville, IDEAS Experience Director at Risepoint
• LaPora Lindsey, L&D Manager, Speaker

Here are some key points and quotes from the webinar: 

Engagement has been a challenge

Employee engagement has been a hot topic, especially as statistics reveal a steady decline in engagement levels. Currently, 68% of employees report feeling disengaged at work, a trend that’s particularly challenging in remote and hybrid work settings.

“One of the biggest challenges in this type of environment is, number one, the communication barriers.” – LaPora Lindsey

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Top engagement strategies

The panelists shared several strategies that can help boost employee engagement:

• Communicate clearly: Ensure that the purpose and value of engagement initiatives are clearly communicated.
• Offer flexibility: Provide flexible work arrangements and respect personal time.
• Foster growth: Offer opportunities for skill development and career advancement.
• Feedback loops: Implement transparent feedback mechanisms and act on employee input.
• Align values: Ensure company values align with social and environmental responsibilities.

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Engagement platforms are a must

The discussion also highlighted the importance of digital engagement tools, particularly in remote and hybrid environments. As Donald Knight emphasized:

“I truly believe in the power of having some level of digital connectedness.”

Some key technological solutions discussed include:

• Community management software: Tools like Chezi, Verbatim, and Wavy
• AI-powered engagement platforms: For recognition and engagement
• Virtual collaboration tools: Such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet
• Co-working space platforms: Examples include Gable
• Employee mapping tools: Useful for managing distributed teams

“These types of platforms are equalizers and critical to ensuring we maintain inclusive, fun, productive work cultures.” – Gianna Driver

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Strategies for effective technology implementation

To maximize the benefits of engagement tools, the panelists recommended:

• Proper onboarding: Ensure thorough onboarding and training for all engagement tools.
• Inclusive experiences: Use technology to create inclusive experiences for remote workers.
• Leverage AI: Utilize AI to automate monotonous tasks and prevent burnout.
• Actionable data: Implement tools that provide actionable engagement data.
• Regular assessments: Continuously assess and update your technology stack based on employee feedback and needs.

“Are we only using those devices to ask questions, or are we genuinely checking in on our teammates to see how everything is going?” – LaPora Lindsey

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Gen Z has unique expectations

The panelists also explored how Gen Z’s expectations differ from previous generations:

• Authenticity and transparency: Gen Z expects employers to be genuine and transparent.
• Work-life balance: They prioritize work-life balance and personal time.
• Value and purpose: Engagement activities must have clear value and purpose.
• Accountability: They demand accountability on social and environmental issues.
• Inclusivity: A preference for inclusive and diverse work environments is essential.

“I think the experience that’s different with Gen Z is that they’re going to hold us accountable.” – Donald Knight

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Leadership’s role in engagement

The impact of leadership on engagement was another key topic. The panelists stressed that leadership involvement is crucial for sustaining employee engagement:

• Active participation: Leaders should actively participate in engagement initiatives.
• Executive presence: This increases trust and connection among employees.
• Modeling behaviors: Leaders need to model work-life balance and recharging behaviors.
• Authentic communication: Honest communication from leaders is essential, especially during times of change.

“When you see that the people who are in charge are connected, it makes me as an employee more excited to lean in and more excited to try.” – Nia Darville

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Tracking engagement metrics is key

Finally, the panelists emphasized the importance of tracking engagement metrics to measure success and make informed decisions:

• Event participation: Track attendance and participation in engagement events.
• Retention and promotion rates: Monitor these metrics for engaged employees.
• Surveys: Conduct pre- and post-event surveys to measure the impact.
• Qualitative feedback: Gather insights from one-on-one conversations with employees.
• Progress assessments: Regularly assess and communicate progress on engagement initiatives.

“I don’t believe employee engagement, employee experience, DE&I—any of that—is one-size-fits-all. It won’t succeed if you don’t find out what your employees want and need.” – Nia Darville

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How GoProfiles can help

As discussed in the webinar, effective engagement tools are crucial in today’s remote and hybrid work environments. GoProfiles is an AI-powered employee engagement platform designed to tackle disengagement by providing personalized insights and fostering meaningful connections among team members.

By leveraging AI, GoProfiles helps HR teams identify engagement gaps, recognize employee contributions, and create a more inclusive and productive workplace culture. Click here to try it for free.

Join the conversation: Register today!

Whether you’re an experienced HR leader or new to the field, these HR GameChanger sessions offer valuable insights and inspiration.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best and stay ahead in the ever-changing world of HR. Register now for the second webinar on September 17th, and mark your calendar!