The past few years have brought us tremendous changes in the workplace, sending us to a time when Zoom calls and hybrid work schedules are an everyday routine.

These recent changes are here to stay, which puts companies in a strategic position to rethink their engagement and recognition strategies.

Looking ahead to 2023, these employee recognition and engagement trends, we predict, will continue to gain ground. This makes it more important than ever for companies to stay ahead of them.

Employee Retention

As “The Great Resignation” continues to linger, companies are finding it increasingly more difficult to attract and retain top talent. “Quiet quitting” has existed for some time, but not until recently was the term coined so succinctly. Showing employees how much they are valued, recognizing their hard work, creating new challenges, and celebrating successes will help to create a foundation for a highly sought-after workplace where people want to stay.

Flexible, Remote & Hybrid Work

Flexible, remote, and hybrid schedules have changed the work dynamic over the past few years. Nowadays, we know these dynamics are here to stay, as companies continue to adapt their return-to-office plans to fit the changing conditions. Offering flexible, hybrid and fully remote work schedule options has not only widened the talent pool for employers but is also a critical initiative for retaining top talent.

Concerns Over Productivity

Making employees feel connected and valued in the new hybrid work environment presents new challenges. And not just for employees, but for leaders as well. According to Microsoft’s 2022 Work Trend Index, “85% of leaders say the shift to hybrid work has made it challenging to have confidence that employees are being productive.” This highlights the value of keeping an open line of communication, providing honest feedback regularly, and celebrating individual and team successes. It’s also an opportunity for companies to leverage their employee recognition and incentive programs, which can help to align the workforce and boost morale.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Sustainability

It’s more important than ever to employees that their companies are doing their part in contributing to the greater good of the people and our planet. Though much progress has been made in recent years, companies still have a long way to go. Identifying DEI initiatives and exploring ongoing training methods are two ways employers can create inclusive work environments beyond hiring diverse talent.

Employee Wellness & Wellbeing

Mental health has sprung to the forefront of conversation in recent years and continues to be a priority for both companies and employees. Mental health professionals agree that healthy behavior begets productivity and reduces burnout. On a personal level, when companies highlight the importance of wellness and wellbeing, it shows their employees they are committed to supporting them on a personal level. This includes assistance with work-life integration, offering resources for mental health, subsidizing fitness memberships, expressing gratitude, and numerous other initiatives. In 2023, it will be imperative for companies to have programs in place to create a healthier work environment.

The Path Forward

The workplace evolution we have witnessed throughout the early 2020s has taken root and is poised to continue in 2023. This is a valuable time for companies to rethink their employee recognition and engagement strategies to keep their people feeling valued, supported, and inspired at work through changing times.