In this episode of the "Lucky 13" podcast, Josh Hauser and Mike Lantz discuss the critical issue of declining employee engagement in the U.S., referencing a recent Gallup report. They explore the Gallup Q12 survey, which measures engagement through 12 questions, and emphasize the pivotal role of middle management in fostering a positive work environment. Key strategies for enhancing engagement include empowering managers, integrating engagement into daily operations, aligning efforts with organizational goals, providing development opportunities, and fostering a culture of recognition. Practical examples and the importance of leadership accountability are also highlighted.       Introduction and Overview (00:00:08) Mike summarizes the previous conversation about the Gallup poll and sets the stage for today's discussion. Gallup Report Findings (00:00:29) Mike discusses the decline in employee engagement and its financial implications for organizations. Q12 Survey Questions (00:01:14) Mike lists the 12 questions from the Gallup Q12 survey that measure employee engagement. Understanding Engagement Levels (00:02:30) Discussion on the percentage of engaged, disengaged, and actively disengaged employees in the workforce. The Role of Managers (00:04:19) Mike emphasizes the critical position of middle managers in influencing employee engagement. Challenges for Mid-Level Managers (00:05:38) Discussion on the pressures mid-level managers face from both frontline employees and executive leadership. Importance of Coaching Managers (00:09:30) Mike stresses the need to empower mid-level managers as coaches to improve employee engagement. Integrating Engagement into Operations (00:10:03) Mike provides examples of how to weave employee engagement into daily operations. Encouraging Employee Development (00:16:00) Discussion on the significance of providing opportunities for employee growth and development. Fostering Recognition and Appreciation (00:17:35) Mike highlights the importance of creating a culture of recognition and appreciation in the workplace. Recognition Practices (00:18:22) Discussion on employee recognition methods that encourage acknowledgment among team members. Intentional Acknowledgment (00:19:04) Importance of specific and intentional recognition to enhance employee engagement. Empowering Managers (00:19:38) Strategies for managers to coach employees and integrate engagement into daily operations. Financial Implications of Engagement (00:20:00) Highlighting the cost of disengagement and the potential return on investment from engagement efforts. Understanding Employee Disengagement (00:20:26) Exploration of which employees tend to leave an organization first and why. Leadership Accountability (00:21:54) Discussion on leaders' responsibility for employee engagement and the impact of their management style. Self-Reflection in Leadership (00:23:00) Encouragement for leaders to evaluate their role in employee disengagement and take responsibility. Evolving Leadership Roles (00:23:50) The shift in the CEO role from Chief Executive Officer to Chief Experience Officer.    

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