In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, employee engagement is often discussed but rarely given the strategic priority it deserves. Our recent Engage Employee webinar, now available on demand, brought this issue into sharp focus, offering invaluable insights for senior leaders who want to create thriving, resilient organisations.
Hosted by Cathy Brown, the session featured a dynamic conversation between Matthew Burgess, Customer Experience Director at WorkNetworks, and Adam Sullivan, CEO of Baywater Healthcare. Together, they explored what authentic engagement looks like, why it matters more than ever, and how leaders can make it a lived reality.
Employee engagement is a term that’s become ubiquitous – appearing in articles, conference titles, and boardroom discussions. Yet, as Matthew pointed out, the concept risks losing its meaning when it’s reduced to a tick-box exercise or a passing trend. The webinar challenged senior leaders to look past the jargon and focus on what truly matters: building genuine connections, enhancing trust, and creating workplaces where people feel valued and heard.
One of the most compelling themes to emerge from the discussion was the critical role of leadership in shaping the employee experience. Engagement isn’t just an HR initiative or a line on a strategy document; it’s a leadership responsibility that requires visibility, empathy, and action.
Adam shared practical examples from Baywater Healthcare, where engagement is a daily, ongoing commitment. For Adam and his team, it’s about being present and responsive – checking in with staff regularly and ensuring that feedback is acknowledged promptly, not just during formal reviews or annual surveys. This approach creates a culture where employees know their voices matter, and where concerns are addressed in real time.
One of the most powerful drivers of engagement is timely recognition. The webinar highlighted how even small gestures – such as a quick message acknowledging a tough day – can have a significant impact on morale and motivation. At Baywater Healthcare, the leadership team makes a concerted effort to respond to feedback as it arises, demonstrating that they are listening and that they care.
This isn’t about grand gestures or elaborate reward schemes. Instead, it’s about creating an environment where people feel seen and supported, even outside traditional working hours. By leveraging digital platforms, leaders can maintain this level of connection and responsiveness, regardless of where their teams are based.
Digital engagement platforms, such as that provided to Baywater Healthcare by WorkNetworks, are transforming the way organisations listen to and support their people. These tools enable leaders to maintain transparency, track feedback, and respond quickly to emerging issues. However, as the webinar made clear, technology is an enabler – not a substitute – for authentic human connection.
The real value lies in how these platforms are used. When leaders use technology to create open dialogue, share updates, and celebrate successes, they create a culture of transparency and accountability. Employees see that their input leads to action, and that leadership is both accessible and responsive.
The world of work has changed dramatically in recent years. Hybrid and remote working are now the norm, and employees’ expectations have shifted accordingly. People want to feel connected to their organisation’s purpose, to their colleagues, and to their leaders – no matter where they are.
Senior leaders who prioritise engagement are better positioned to:
The webinar offered a wealth of practical advice for leaders looking to make engagement a strategic priority:
If you’re a senior leader who wants to create a culture where engagement is more than a buzzword, this webinar is essential viewing.
By watching the on-demand webinar, you’ll gain:
Ready to lead the change? Access the on-demand webinar today and start your journey towards an engaged workforce, driven from the top down.