Dear HR: How do I keep my team engaged when it feels like no one’s engaged?

Dear HR Manager

I’ve been noticing a dip in my team’s energy, and I’m unsure if it’s just us. People are doing the work, but the spark isn’t there. I’m worried about burnout, turnover, and losing the momentum we’ve built.

— Concerned but Committed

Dear Concerned,

You’re not imagining it, it’s part of a wider trend. Gallup’s latest report shows that just over two out of every 10 employees worldwide feel engaged at work, marking the lowest level seen in years.

Start with Manager Connection
Seventy percent of team engagement is tied directly to the manager. That means your role is the most important driver you can control. Schedule regular one-on-ones to check in—not just on work progress, but on how people are doing.
 
Give Purpose a Spotlight
Low engagement often stems from not seeing the “why.” Connect everyday work to the bigger mission and be specific about the impact your team is having. When employees can see their contribution, commitment rises.

Create Small Wins
You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Introduce one engagement practice at a time, peer recognition, cross-team collaboration, or even a learning challenge. The goal is to rebuild energy step by step, not add more to already full plates.

Even in a tough climate, consistent leadership attention can reignite engagement. You can’t control the global stats, but you can change the story for your team.

— HR Manager