The 2014 Gallup poll shows that while less than one-third (31.5%) of U.S. workers were engaged in their jobs, a majority of employees, 51%, were still “not engaged” and 17.5% were “actively disengaged” in 2014.

A look at the generations shows traditionalists are the most engaged group, at 42.2%, possibly because the few who work do so by choice and enjoy their jobs. Millennials are the least engaged group, at 28.9%.

What will enhance employee engagement? A high-trust work environment where leaders communicate openly and honestly with their people. The result? greater management credibility, which will help to build collaboration and teamwork.

Trust is a critical factor in employee engagement and retention, which can have a bottom line impact on an organization’s profitability (employee turnover costs companies millions of dollars each year). To attract, develop, motivate and retain the best talent, companies must clearly communicate expectations and then deliver as promised. Establishing trust can improve morale, resulting in lower turnover, improved productivity, and increased job satisfaction, creating value for the business.

Leaders who cultivate a high-trust environment are conscious leaders who support their people, espousing the tenets of Conscious Capitalism. As Robert Greenleaf, author of Servant Leadership observed, “Good leaders must first become good servants.”

Read more at:

http://www.gallup.com/poll/181289/majority-employees-not-engaged-despite-gains-2014.aspx