3 Employee Engagement Challenges Facing The Utilities Industry

By Kristen Wells, Zinc

Overcome These Challenges with an Emphasis on Communication

Similar to other deskless industries, there are unique employee engagement challenges facing the utilities industry brought on by advances in technology and a shortage of qualified workers. The latest employee engagement statistics reveal that only 52% of utility workers are engaged. With many changes happening in the industry and an often stressful and even dangerous work environment, it’s no surprise that employee engagement is a challenge.

But employee engagement levels can easily be improved. The key is for companies to focus on effective, transparent communication that keeps employees in-the-know, safe, and supported in their jobs. Find out how to overcome three employee engagement challenges facing utility workers with the following strategies.

1. Mergers and acquisitions

The flurry of mergers and acquisitions in the utility industry is leading to disjointed, sometimes conflicting, organizational structures. Stress brought on by job insecurity, process changes, org reorganization, and company culture differences negatively impact employee morale, especially if companies aren’t keeping their frontline employees in the loop.

Solution: Regular, transparent communication before, during, and after a merger or acquisition is key to helping employees feel informed and engaged throughout the process. By continuously updating frontline workers, you can avoid dips in productivity and keep customers confident in your company’s ability to deliver great service.