Home » Association » 3 Actions You Can Take to Improve Employee Engagement
employee engagement

3 Actions You Can Take to Improve Employee Engagement

In the most recent Gallup survey about employee engagement, respondents report a decline in access to training, less connection to their organization’s mission and infrequent praise in the workplace. Since 2020, the amount of workers who say they know what’s expected of them has dropped by 10 points. Review data highlights below and get some action items with tools and programs from the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) to learn how you can take action to avoid disengaged employees and burnout.


Learning Opportunities

This last year, I have had opportunities at work to learn and grow.

As of February 2024, this metric has reached its lowest point since January 2011, with only 31% of respondents reporting they strongly agree.

Take Action

Reach out to NHPA Member Services at nhpa@yourNHPA.org or 800-772-4424 to determine your membership status and take advantage of more than 240 online training modules to set your team up for success.


Mission: Connection

The mission or purpose of my company makes me feel my job is important.

This metric is the lowest it’s ever been since the survey started in 2007. Explaining how your team’s roles support the company’s mission is critical to retention.

Take Action

Explore NHPA’s development programs to help you establish your mission statement, core values and a strong company culture. Learn more at YourNHPA.org/development.


Praiseworthy Performance

In the last seven days, I have received recognition or praise for doing good work.

After reaching historic highs in early 2020, respondents reporting recognition for a job well done within the previous seven days is at an all-time low after a brief uptick last year.

Take Action

Make a plan to recognize the efforts of your team on a regular basis. For guidance on how to make your feedback authentic, review the Words of Affirmation guide at YourNHPA.org/affirmation.

About Lindsey Thompson

Lindsey joined the NHPA staff in 2021 as an associate editor for Hardware Retailing magazine. A native of Ohio, Lindsey earned a B.S. in journalism and minors in business and sociology from Ohio University. She loves spending time with her husband, two kids, two cats and one dog, as well as doing DIY projects around the house, going to concerts, boating and cheering on the Cleveland Indians.

Check Also

Expert Column: Retail Accounting 101

By Gina Schaefer Founder and Former CEO A Few Cool Hardware Stores When I launched …