Employee engagement is all the rage. And rightly so. All the research shows that engaged employees are more committed, productive and generate more results than those who aren’t. And they are happier and more fulfilled with their careers.

That’s why firms go to great lengths to create environments that stimulate their people’s passion and discretionary effort. Firm leaders survey their staff to determine how they could be better and then respond to the feedback they get.

Engage Yourself

With all the time, money and effort put into raising the level of engagement, firm leaders are not getting the return they hope for. The reason is that people make the final decision about whether to be engaged or not. That means you. If you decide to get into your career with abandon, you will experience what it means to be engaged. How you show up and what you do every day dictates your sense of engagement. In the end, you are in control, not your firm or your leaders.

Engagement Survey

Let’s do a quick check with a little survey of my own. (If you’re one of the many who read this before you begin work, you get a heads up).

Question #1: What was your attitude when you began the day?

1. Energetic
2. Lethargic
3. Pissy

Question #2: How would you describe your first encounter with someone in your firm?

1. Connected
2. Ignored
3. Scowled

Question #3: Typically, what will be the next screen you look at after reading this?

1. An important client activity
2. Your email (again)
3. Facebook

I hope you showed up today as an engaged employee who has passion and commitment to being your best and doing your best. By focusing on giving your all, you will end the day satisfied, fulfilled…and engaged.