The Reality of Employee Disengagement: Key Insights from Gallup's 2023 Report

A recent Gallup report, reveals four out of five employees in Australia are feeling disengaged from their work. For HR professionals and business owners, this revelation serves as a wake-up call to the pressing issue of employee engagement in the workplace.

Gallup's 2023 State of the Global Workplace reports a disheartening reality where 67% of the workforce are passively disengaged, and 13% are actively disengaged, actively harming their organisations. Only 20% employees reported feeling engaged in their roles.

The economic impact of this disengagement are substantial, with billion in annual costs attributed to low engagement in Australia. However, this figure also highlights the immense potential of engagement strategies in driving productivity.

One key takeaway from the report is the sharp rise in employee stress levels, with almost half of Australian employees experiencing high stress levels, exceeding the global average. The primary predictor of this stress is the availability of tools necessary for effective job performance, with only 40 percent strongly agreeing that they have access to these tools.

When asked about changes they would like to see in their workplaces, disengaged employees expressed the need for recognition for contributions, clearer goals, fair promotion opportunities, approachable managers, skill development and more autonomy.

Gallup's research emphasises the quality of management is the most significant driver of low engagement. This emphasises the pivotal role of manager development in any organisation's engagement strategy.

To reinvigorate passively disengaged employees, a shift from traditional management styles to a coaching approach is essential. Managers should value employees as individuals, offering guidance, recognition, and opportunities for skill development. By addressing these concerns and implementing effective management practices, organisations can unlock their employees' full potential and foster a more engaged workforce.

Don't let disengagement hinder your organisation’s growth. Contact AdvisoryHR to take the first step toward a more engaged and productive workforce.

Learn more about Gallup's, State of the Global Workplace