Delivering the bigger picture makes employees three times more engaged

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, the quest for increased productivity and success remains a constant challenge. Companies invest in new technologies, adopt innovative strategies, and employ the best talent. However, there’s one fundamental aspect of productivity that often gets overlooked: effective communication. More specifically, consistent communication of company goals and regular feedback to teams can be a game-changer. If you want to drive productivity, it’s time to embrace the practice of sharing your objectives and providing constructive feedback every week.

The importance of communicating company goals regularly cannot be overstated. A Harvard study found on average, 95% of a company’s employees are unaware of, or do not understand, its strategy and Culture Amp data reveals that when employees see how their work contributes to the company goals or strategy, they are 2.9x more engaged.

Setting clear objectives and making sure everyone in the organisation understands them is the foundation upon which productivity is built. Without a clear sense of direction, teams can easily become disoriented, leading to a lack of focus, duplication of efforts, and overall inefficiency. By revisiting and reiterating the company’s goals every week, you ensure that every member of the team is aligned with the organisation’s mission and working towards a common purpose.

Frequent communication of company goals empowers employees to take ownership of their roles. In order for this to happen, managers need to understand the company strategy and be able to teach it to others. When team members have a clear understanding of the bigger picture, they are more likely to make decisions that are in line with the company’s objectives. This not only increases individual productivity but also enhances overall team cohesion and performance.

We call it “management productivity” because we hold managers accountable for the performance of their divisions and the people who work within them. But ultimately, what we’re really measuring is the productivity of the system as a whole. When everyone knows what they are striving to achieve, it becomes much easier for them to contribute to the success of the company.

But communication alone is not enough. Feedback is the other critical component for driving productivity. Managers who have regular one-on-ones and check-in sessions with their team members can have a transformative impact. Culture Amp data shows employees who participate in regular 1-on-1’s are 35% less likely to leave their organisation.

Regular feedback sessions offer several advantages.

Check-ins provide an opportunity for course correction in real time. Waiting for quarterly or annual performance reviews to address issues or provide guidance is outdated and can lead to prolonged inefficiencies. With regular feedback, problems can be identified and addressed promptly, resulting in quicker resolutions and a smoother workflow.

Regular feedback also fosters continuous improvement. When team members receive regular input on their work, they are more likely to learn and grow on an ongoing basis. Constructive feedback allows employees to refine their skills, make adjustments, and consistently perform at a higher level. This commitment to self-improvement naturally enhances productivity.

Our data shows feedback builds trust and engagement. When employees know that their contributions are recognised and their challenges are acknowledged, they feel valued and connected to the organisation. This sense of engagement motivates them to work harder and put in their best effort. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement where employees receive the support and recognition they need, while the company benefits from heightened productivity and commitment.

If you want to drive productivity in your organisation, prioritise the practice of communicating company goals and giving your team feedback every week. This approach not only keeps your workforce aligned with the company’s mission but also allows for rapid adaptation and enhances individual and collective performance. The benefits of this communication and feedback loop are not just limited to improved productivity; they extend to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, trust, and engagement.

 Tom Lewis is the lead solutions consultant at Culture Amp.