Employee engagement begins with the leader; arguably one of the most important factors in fostering innovation.

Employees will feel engaged when they know what is going on, so having that open line of communication is crucial, however, that is just the beginning. It is important that teams be able to do their job without hindrance. When the leaders and the company make it easier for teams to get their work done, they feel happier and are more goal-oriented, instead of being tied up in red tape and procedure.

Alongside communication is clarity; clarity in tasks, objectives, procedures, and policies. Making it difficult for an employee to determine their role and how they need to approach a task is a good way to make them feel disengaged. By putting road blocks in the way or making things more difficult than they need to be, employees are less likely to feel engaged or even loyal.