As organisations in Southeast Asia shift back to more office-based operations, fostering employee engagement has never been more critical. With a mix of hybrid work models and fully in-office roles, businesses face the challenge of keeping employees motivated and connected.
This Chief of Staff Five explores five creative strategies that can help HR teams boost engagement for office-based staff. From wellness programmes to flexible working environments, these approaches not only enhance productivity but also foster a stronger sense of belonging. These strategies are particularly relevant for HR professionals seeking to adapt to changing work preferences and build thriving office environments.
1. Gamified Performance Recognition
Gamification can make daily tasks more exciting and enhance employee engagement. Incorporating leaderboards, challenges, and rewards into performance tracking encourages healthy competition and recognition. Eve HR, for example, provides a platform for organisations to reward employees through engaging, gamified interfaces. By tying performance recognition to both personal and team achievements, companies can boost morale and create a positive work culture. (Example: Eve HR – https://chiefofstaff.asia/directory/eve/)
2. Flexible Office Design
Designing an office space that supports collaboration and well-being can drastically improve engagement. Providing employees with flexible workstations, breakout areas, and quiet zones allows them to choose environments that best suit their work. Companies like Officeworks Global help organisations redesign office spaces for maximum comfort and productivity, blending creativity with functionality to keep employees engaged. (Example: Officeworks Global – https://chiefofstaff.asia/directory/officeworks-global/)
3. Wellness Initiatives and Mental Health Support
Wellness programmes are vital to maintaining a happy and productive workforce. Initiatives such as on-site yoga, mental health workshops, and wellness days give employees the opportunity to recharge. Zennya Health, based in the Philippines, offers corporate wellness services that promote physical and mental well-being, helping HR leaders create a supportive and engaging work environment. (Example: Zennya Health – https://chiefofstaff.asia/directory/zennya-health/)
4. Cross-Departmental Collaboration Projects
Encouraging employees to work on cross-departmental projects fosters collaboration and keeps engagement levels high. Allowing different teams to contribute their unique expertise not only boosts creativity but also strengthens team bonds. Singapore’s CollabWorks provides project management tools that make cross-team collaboration seamless, helping companies break down silos and build stronger, more engaged workforces. (Example: CollabWorks – https://chiefofstaff.asia/directory/collabworks/)
5. Upskilling and Career Development Programmes
Offering opportunities for upskilling can enhance employee satisfaction and engagement. By providing clear pathways for career progression, organisations show their commitment to employee growth. Leading training provider Workforce Singapore offers various development programmes that allow staff to enhance their skill sets and take on new challenges within the company. (Example: Workforce Singapore – https://chiefofstaff.asia/directory/workforce-singapore/)
