Can you ask more of your people without sacrificing engagement?
New research from Wiley Workplace Intelligence suggests the answer is yes.
After surveying nearly 1,500 people, Wiley found that higher performance demands alone don’t necessarily lead to disengagement. What matters more is whether employees experience alignment, psychological safety, and support from their managers.
In fact, employees were more than six times more likely to report high engagement when leadership alignment was strong.
The Difference Is How We Lead
High expectations aren’t necessarily the problem. Problems arise when priorities aren’t clear, leaders send conflicting messages, or managers become so overwhelmed themselves that they don’t have the capacity to support their teams.
When leaders are aligned, employees have a clearer understanding of priorities, how their work contributes to larger goals, and what’s expected of them.
And when managers have the capacity to lead thoughtfully rather than reactively, they’re better positioned to create an environment where employees feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and speaking up.
Where Does DiSC Fit In?
Everything DiSC® gives managers a deeper understanding of their own leadership and communication tendencies while helping them recognize what different people need from them.
That awareness can help managers adapt how they communicate expectations, provide feedback, delegate responsibilities, and support employees, especially when demands are high.
High performance and a positive employee experience don’t have to compete. With greater understanding, alignment, and intentional leadership, organizations can create an environment where people are challenged and supported.
Read the full research from Wiley Workplace Intelligence →
Help Managers Raise the Bar Without Losing Their People
Everything DiSC® Management on Catalyst™ helps managers better understand themselves and the people they lead so they can adapt their approach, communicate more effectively, and create the conditions for people to perform at their best.
Explore Everything DiSC Management →