Nonprofit Employee Engagement

[Sybil F. Stershic]

I'm looking for resources and/or research that specifically address employee engagement (and/or disengagement) in nonprofits.

Thanks!

[Karl.Staib]

Finding ways to keep employees engaged when you can't pay them as well can be difficult. I think it comes down to two things.

1. Listening to what they need - Ask them and try as hard as you can to implement their ideas.
2. The story you tell - Every employee must believe in the story of the company or they won't be engaged. Zappos has a culture book that they will send you for free if you call them up. It explains how to create a culture that is engaging, fun, and creative.

It will take time to build that trust, but consistent action is very important. You should try to schedule a way to deliver your story and listen to their needs. That way the employees know that you care and are willing to keep trying until you get it right.

[Sybil F. Stershic]

Thanks for your input, Karl. I had the opportunity to visit Zappos last year and brought back their culture book - what they've created is absolutely amazing.

As for nonprofits, I find that most employees are willing to accept nonprofit payscales because they're passionate about the mission. However, this passion can only go so far in a difficult workplace run by people with poor management skills. I believe the resulting disengagement is not that different from the corporate sector. But I'm curious - has anyone ever examined employee engagement in a nonprofit vs. a for-profit?

[Rob Fox]

Hi,

Have a look at the resource at www.engagingideas.co.uk. The pack is used by several not for profits and they seem to like using it as the exercises are self directed - they engage on the issue of engagement, reflecting the inner motivation and voluntary ethos that charaterises the not for profit culture.

I hope this helps, and please e-mail back if interested; always willing to help good things be gooder!

Best,

Rob.
www.engagingideas.co.uk