This is the first part of a series from Alyssa Zickert, our new Coaching Strategist here at Progress Coaching. Let us know what you think in the comments!

Sometimes we must reach down and reconnect with our roots – in business, our roots are the employees that help build companies from the ground up. The most valuable connection any manager can possibly make in the office can be made in many ways, with the most effective being outside the comfort of the manager’s office- building valuable trust between manager and employee.

The phrase “Workplace Culture” has become a prevalent concept among company executives. Do you know the state of your company’s workplace culture?

If you expect productivity from your employees, you have to be prepared to hop in and grind it out beside the folks whom you rely on for your own success. 

According to a Gallup survey done in 2013, however, about 70% of United States employees are disengaged from their jobs. So why is this? It may be the case due to a disconnect between employees and their managers. If the expectation in an office is teamwork and engagement, should managers not lead by example?

Time is valuable to a manager, but it is just as valuable to an employee. All too often, we become engrossed in OUR day and what WE need to accomplish as managers. It can be easy to fill the day with tasks, but how many times per week do managers set aside time to be a part of the team that they oversee? By taking the time to be among the soldiers, this offers an opportunity to respond to questions, make observations, and provide positive feedback. 

Do you agree? What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.