In a context where engagement, talent retention and innovation are major issues, involving employees in strategic decision-making can become a real lever for transformation for a company.
But why is this approach so important and how can you apply it effectively? Let’s explore its benefits and the best strategies to implement it.
What are the benefits of employee participation in decision making?
Making employees co-decision-makers may initially seem scary for a manager, as it requires a certain amount of letting go. However, this strategy has many positive points, particularly in facilitating change management. By involving employees in decisions, companies encourage buy-in for new initiatives and ensure a smoother transition in the face of market changes.
1. Increased engagement
Employees who participate in decision-making feel valued, which promotes their engagement. A study reveals that companies with engaged employees see their absenteeism rate decrease by 78% and their productivity increase by 18%. The turnover rate is also significantly reduced. By integrating teams into strategic choices, companies create a relationship of trust, which directly impacts the company's performance.
2. An innovative environment
When employees with diverse perspectives can freely express their ideas, innovation comes naturally and creativity is fostered. Research shows that companies that involve their resources in the decision-making process make better choices. A culture that values initiative helps organizations stay competitive in the long run. As the saying goes, many heads are better than one!
3. Better communication and more collaboration
Involving employees in decisions encourages teamwork and helps break down organizational silos. This facilitates exchanges and the sharing of ideas, while promoting the peer learning process. By supporting a better flow of information, this approach increases the agility and responsiveness of the company.
4. A strengthened climate of trust
An employee who understands and participates in the company's strategic choices is more likely to trust it. A policy of transparency in decision-making helps to strengthen the relationship between managers and their resources by establishing an open and constructive dialogue.
5. A stronger corporate culture
Employee engagement fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens organizational culture. A company that encourages collaboration, listening, and participation creates an environment where employees are more invested in their work and develop a real attachment to the organization.
How to get employees more involved?
To maximize the benefits of employee participation, it is essential to implement effective mechanisms that motivate their daily engagement.
1. Create an environment of trust
A climate where employees feel comfortable sharing their opinions is essential. Encourage transparent communication through regular meetings, direct discussions with management, and an open-door policy to facilitate the flow of ideas. Managers should also lead by example by valuing contributions and demonstrating that every voice matters.
2. Solicit feedback regularly
Don’t hesitate to periodically solicit feedback on existing policies, for example by using anonymous surveys or by providing suggestion boxes for employees. But for this to work, it’s important to go beyond simply collecting feedback: it’s essential to follow up on suggestions and show how they actually influence decisions.
3. Set up working groups
Creating strategic committees or think tanks allows you to include resources in specific projects. For example, you could organize a working group dedicated to innovation, or a wellness committee that could propose initiatives to improve the quality of life at work. These initiatives give employees an active role in the development of the company, while motivating them to contribute to collective success.
4. Value initiative through recognition
Recognition is a powerful driver of engagement. An employee whose contributions are valued will be more likely to share their ideas and get fully involved. Implementing a recognition program that includes congratulations, rewards or development opportunities helps to highlight the importance of everyone's involvement. Companies would also benefit from highlighting collective successes, in order to motivate teams and strengthen the culture of sharing.
Towards a culture of shared decision-making
Involving employees in decision-making is a key strategy to optimize performance, strengthen corporate culture and foster innovation. By establishing appropriate mechanisms, valuing initiatives and creating a climate of trust, companies can transform the way they operate and build a stronger, more agile organization, where employees are engaged in the collective success of the organization.
Pascale Hubert
Web Writer