Engagement is a term that is used quite often in the professional development world. 

Simply defined, engagement is the emotional commitment a team member has for the business and its goals. It is a demonstration that they truly care about their work and the firm. 

There are four key aspects to engagement: 

• Immersion: Does the team member get absorbed into the work?
• Challenge & Commitment: Does the team member welcome stretch goals and pursue them enthusiastically?
• Connection to Greater Purpose: Is the team member interested in contributing to the organization’s mission and purpose?
• Energy: Is the team member energetic with their work and others on the team?

Team members who are engaged should be able to answer “Yes” to these questions:

• Is workload and work pace manageable? 
• Do I use my best skills regularly? 
• Do I have opportunities to stretch and grow? 
• Do I feel like I have control over my work life? 
• Am I able to make my own decisions?
• Do I feel connected to my colleagues, manager/partner(s), and the firm? 
• Can I be myself while working? 
• In the last seven days, has someone appreciated or expressed value for my work? 
• Do I feel like my work matters or makes a difference?

Feel free to share this message and these questions with your partners, managers and leaders. While the questions are fairly straightforward, getting a “Yes” might not be so easy.