15 excellent employee engagement tools to invest in right now

As remote work becomes the new norm, maintaining team connections is more important than ever. However, only 33% of US employees are engaged at work, while 16% are actively disengaged.

When your team members are not engaged, they may feel unhappy, lose motivation, and produce lower-quality work. This can negatively affect your company's success.

Developing relationships and measuring employee engagement requires effective, integrated tools. Take a closer look at employee engagement tools, how they can boost your team's experience, and which ones you may want to consider.

What are employee engagement tools?

Employee engagement tools are software solutions that help increase organizational teamwork and employee involvement. They can be standalone applications or part of larger HR software systems. Both paid and free employee engagement software options are available, and many are SaaS tools delivered via the cloud.

The key difference between these tools and other company software is that they focus on areas vital to employee engagement, such as peer recognition, feedback and learning, and dedicated communication channels. Various features are available, from broad solutions to more specific programs like rewards or team-building. This allows leaders to customize tools according to the specific needs of their teams and encourage a culture of engagement.

Both remote employees and in-office teams are increasingly engaging with these tools, making them one of the most prominent employee engagement solutions. Reports show the market for digital engagement tools is growing at a rapid pace, making up nearly 15% of the HR market.

What are the benefits of tools for employee engagement?

A good understanding of employee engagement tools is essential, but recognizing their benefits gives them their true value. Besides cultivating a dynamic workplace culture, these tools provide many benefits, including:

• Efficiency: Engagement tools simplify communication and knowledge management. They reduce the need for meetings and emails, increase resource availability, and result in more productive work hours.
• Improved Onboarding: Engagement tools offer comprehensive and interactive experiences to set new hires up for success from the start. They play a significant role in the onboarding process — in a recent BambooHR study, 89% of employees said an effective onboarding process made them highly engaged at work. 
• Increased Employee Retention: 70% of US employees are considering leaving their jobs in 2023, so retention strategies are crucial. Engagement tools can create a work environment where team members feel valued and connected throughout the entire employee lifecycle.  
• Employee Satisfaction: Engagement platforms enable regular check-ins and feedback, fostering a culture of appreciation and value. This active involvement enhances job satisfaction, resulting in a more committed and productive workforce.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Engagement tools often include analytics for insights into team morale and productivity. These data points can help managers and HR professionals shape strategies to maintain high engagement and satisfaction levels.

Considering these benefits, it's clear that investing in employee engagement tools is more than keeping up with the latest trends. Engaging your employees with digital tools is the key to a thriving business.

Key types of employee engagement tools

Today's digital workplace offers HR professionals and managers a wide range of tools for engaging employees. Leaders can cultivate a productive, engaged, and satisfied workforce by focusing on the categories below.

Communication and culture

These engagement tools facilitate effective, inclusive communication that creates a strong company culture. Solutions range from chat tools and virtual meeting platforms to social intranets and company-wide message boards.

Gallup's Exceptional Workplace Award winners in 2022 had an average employee engagement of 70%. The secret to their success? They provided managers with the skills and tools they needed to have meaningful conversations with their teams, promoting understanding, collaboration, and alignment throughout the organization.

Recognition and rewards

A striking statistic reveals that only one in four employees feel recognized for good work. With increased recognition, companies can improve work quality by 28% and reduce absenteeism by 31%, among other benefits. These tools help to establish a culture of recognition, whether peer-to-peer or company-wide.

Knowledge management and centralization

Tools for managing knowledge and projects are vital for organizing, storing, and sharing company information. Often paired with a knowledge management framework, these solutions streamline the flow of information and tasks. 

A proper knowledge management system promotes transparency and collaboration, enabling employees to access required resources and expertise. These tools are ideal for connecting departments and teams through project management and communication.

Onboarding and professional development

This category includes engagement tools that are essential for employee satisfaction and retention. They ease employee onboarding, provide opportunities for frequent check-ins and reviews, and allow for continuous learning and development. 

Remember the BambooHR study that linked a positive onboarding experience with high job satisfaction? Despite that fact, only 12% of employees in a Gallup survey said their employers had an efficient onboarding process. This gap indicates how important engagement tools are to providing employees with a good start and continuing growth.

15 top employee engagement tools your team needs

If you’re ready to step up your team’s engagement, many tools are available to help you. Apps and software are available in a range of categories, from communication to recognition. Here are some of our top choices:

Top employee engagement tools for knowledge management

1. Happeo

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Best for: Streamlining knowledge management and internal communications across all team sizes

Advanced intranet platform Happeo optimizes communication and knowledge sharing to encourage a collaborative and productive work environment, making it particularly valuable for engaging remote teams. Its cloud-based nature enables seamless access and collaboration from anywhere, while features such as advanced search functionality, content creation tools, and analytics enhance engagement and productivity. 

Happeo also simplifies team collaboration and communication across distributed teams by making it easier to find and search for people, schedule meetings, and establish connections among team members.

Key features:

• Universal Search: Access your company's knowledge database in one place.
• Federated Search: Seamlessly integrate with Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 to search across all tools simultaneously.
• Intranet Channels: Engage in discussions, share updates, or comment on content collaboratively.
• Personalized homepages: Eliminate distractions and give employees only the information they need. 
• Employee communities: Create a central space that employees can call their own, align on company culture, and give credit where it's due. 
• People directories: Make it easy for employees to find, learn about and connect with other employees.
• Templates: Easily create and share internal communication content.
• Analytics: Gain insights to refine your communication and knowledge-sharing practices.
  
  

2. Workvivo

G2 Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Best for: Increasing employee engagement and connectivity through a social experience

With Workvivo, employees can benefit from the functionality of an intranet, communication, and employee engagement tool. This app has an added benefit of a social experience that nurtures team relationships.

Key features:

• Personalized Activity Feed: Provides a social space for team updates and shout-outs.
• People Directory: Strengthens connections within the organization with comprehensive team and profile information.
• Livestream: Enables broadcasting live events to teams or the entire company.
• Podcasts: Supports company podcasts and includes a directory of industry podcasts.
• Events Calendar: Increases event engagement with a feature-rich tool for organization-wide events.
  
  

3. Guru

G2 Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Best for: Enhancing team collaboration and knowledge sharing through AI-powered features

Guru simplifies sharing information across your organization with its all-in-one platform. AI-powered features adapt over time to team usage, improving functionality and cultivating a connected, engaged workforce.

Key features:

• AI-Powered Answers and Search: Effortlessly discover accurate and trustworthy information.
• Automated In-context Knowledge: Receive relevant information related to the webpage you're viewing.
• Personalized Dashboard: Get a unique homepage with essential announcements and AI-suggested content.
• AI Content Assist: Simplify content creation and summarization with an AI-powered writing assistant.
• Verification and Duplicate Detection: Ensure content credibility and eliminate redundancy.

Top digital tools for communication and culture

4. Slack

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Best for: Seamless integration of other tools into existing communications

Slack enables teams to communicate and stay connected on one platform, regardless of location. By offering a variety of integrations, the familiar tool can also ease the adoption of other new employee engagement solutions.

Key features:

• Unified Communication Hub: All team channels and conversations in one place.
• Real-Time Messaging: Instant messaging capabilities with real-time responses.
• Robust Message Archive: Centralized and searchable archive of messages for easy access and future reference.
• Extensive Integrations: Connects with over 1,500 external apps and services.
• Mobile Functionality: Fully native apps for iOS and Android.
  
  

5. Blink

G2 Rating: 4.6 out of 5

Best for: A mobile-first employee engagement tool with integrated communications and advanced security features

Blink, a mobile-first employee app and portal, boosts communication and productivity. The customizable activity feed, team calendars, messaging functionality, and unified search all contribute to employee engagement.

Key features:

• Streamlined Work Processes: Simplify administrative tasks by digitizing paystubs, schedules, and expense claims.
• Seamless Integration: Easily connect Blink with existing tools and systems.
• Engaging Communication: Facilitate communication with secure chats, social media-like feeds, and reminders for must-read information.
• Employee Recognition and Insights: Celebrate work while gaining insights on engagement, satisfaction, retention, etc.
• Efficient Feedback and Issue Resolution: Quickly gather feedback and resolve frontline issues with in-app surveys and tools.
  
  

6. Haiilo

G2 Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Best for: Improving engagement and productivity through seamless multichannel communications

The Haiilo employee communications platform enhances team communication, employee morale, and overall productivity. This tool promotes a collaborative and connected working environment, effectively uniting the entire workforce.

Key features:

• Multichannel Communications: Deliver targeted content to employees via their preferred channels.
• Intranet Functionality: Curate and publish content to specific groups or individuals in a central place.
• Pulse Surveys: Gather feedback and insights to identify improvement areas and boost engagement.
• Employee Advocacy: Encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing among employees.
• AI-Powered Content Studio: Streamline content creation with a single platform for planning, creating, scheduling, and publishing.
  
  

Best employee engagement software for recognition and rewards 

7. Guusto

G2 Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Best for: Cultivating an inclusive culture through recognition programs with societal impact

The comprehensive recognition programs from Guusto, a leading employee recognition platform, motivate employees to perform at their best. By combining transparency and scalability, Guusto boosts engagement while contributing to social good — the company donates one day of clean water for every gift sent.

Key features:

• Scalable Recognition Programs: Set up simple, scalable programs efficiently.
• Transparent System: Straightforward currency-based reward system with no hidden fees and 60,000+ merchant participants.
• Exceptional ROI: Free single accounts, full refunds for unclaimed gifts, and subscription fees for gift-sending members only.
• Rewards at Your Fingertips: Conveniently use either the mobile app or web platform.
• Powerful Team Access: Create and deploy teams easily, allowing members access to team funds, transfers, and leaderboards.
  
  

8. Bonusly

G2 Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Best for: Enriching company culture through an integrated recognition and rewards platform

Bonusly enhances company culture and engagement through a user-friendly recognition and rewards program. The tool promotes peer-to-peer recognition, leading to a positive and motivating workplace.

Key features:

• Culture of Recognition: Regular peer-to-peer recognition with Bonusly's easy-to-use platform.
• Inter-team Collaboration: Promote a motivating work environment, boosting productivity and retention.
• Robust Analytics: Get a clear understanding of recognition trends to improve the employee experience.
• Mobile Recognition: Appreciation is accessible anywhere, anytime with Bonusly's top-rated mobile app.
• Seamless Integration: Compatible with existing workplace apps for a smooth user experience.
  
  

9. Kudos

G2 Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Best for: Boosting engagement and performance via peer-to-peer recognition and value alignment

Through peer-to-peer recognition and value alignment, Kudos maximizes performance and enhances company culture. The program encourages open communication, reduces turnover, and improves workplace culture.

Key features:

• Appreciative Culture: Multi-level recognition platform that acknowledges contributions and encourages performance.
• Insightful Analytics: Robust dashboards provide valuable information on performance, culture, and employee experience.
• Easy Integration: Connects with existing productivity tools for enhanced collaboration and recognition.
• Enhance Engagement: Pre-built or custom in-app campaigns, personalized promotional materials, and expert guidance.
• Value-Aligned Recognition: Ensures acknowledgments reinforce organizational culture.
  
  

10. AwardCo

G2 Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Best for: Dynamic and diverse recognition program with a vast range of reward options

The goal of AwardCo is to build a vibrant workplace culture through impactful recognition. This platform offers various management tools for recognition programs, collaborating with Amazon Business to offer a wide range of rewards.

Key features:

• Culture of Appreciation: Manager-to-peer recognition, tracking, and nomination features create a supportive environment.
• Performance Management: Comprehensive data analytics provide insights into redemption summaries and reward program performance.
• Customizable Rewards: Collaboration with Amazon Business provides a broad selection of reward options.
• Automated Recognition: Automated systems streamline processes like birthday recognitions and new member welcome programs.
• Centralized Management: Manage and tailor multiple recognition programs from one platform.
  
  

Top professional development and feedback tools

11. Leapsome

G2 Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Best for: Implementing a continuous cycle of performance management, personalized learning, and employee engagement programs

The Leapsome platform is designed for businesses aiming to improve their people management strategies, build teams, and scale their workforce. Performance management and personalized learning are integral parts of Leapsome's model for employee engagement.

Key features:

• Integrated or Custom Review Systems: Build the review you need or choose from templates for performance, agile, 360-degree, or anonymous reviews.
• Goal Setting and OKRs: Set and track individual and company goals, driving accountability and inspiring achievement.
• Continuous Feedback and Recognition: Promote a culture of continuous feedback and growth-oriented conversations with tools for feedback, one-on-one meetings, and public praise.
• Skill and Competency Tracking: Identify skill gaps, track development, and make informed decisions on team composition and training.
• Analytics and Reporting: Utilize dashboards and reports for insights into performance and goal progress, and optimize performance management processes.
  
  

12. WorkTango

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best for: A holistic approach to employee experience, integrating recognition, surveys, and goal-setting

Employee engagement and inspiration are at the heart of WorkTango's employee experience platform. This tool encourages team members to reach goals, and it recognizes, rewards, and gives feedback in real time to engaged employees.

Key Features:

• Recognition and Rewards: Implement a system that acknowledges and reinforces desired behaviors and values.
• Survey and Insights: Gather authentic feedback and measure engagement levels with employee surveys that support actionable improvements.
• Manage Professional Development: Promote ongoing alignment and professional development through goal setting and feedback.
• Authentic Employee Feedback: Unlock the power of feedback, turning insights into actionable steps across the employee lifecycle.
• Advanced Analytics and Insights: Leverage dashboards and analytics to gain in-depth insights, make data-driven decisions, and access automatic recommendations.
  
  

13.Officevibe

G2 Rating: 4.3 out of 5

Best for: Enhancing the employee experience through performance management and feedback

Officevibe focuses on performance management and feedback to improve the overall employee experience. Its features enable leaders to gain actionable insights and build a culture of trust and engagement in their teams.

Key Features:

• Automated Pulse Surveys: Regularly gauge employee sentiment and gather feedback for valuable insights.
• Anonymous Feedback and Messaging: Encourage open communication and honest opinions with anonymous feedback and messaging capabilities.
• Performance Reviews: Efficiently evaluate employee performance with streamlined performance reviews.
• Continuous Performance: Promote continuous growth and development through ongoing feedback, goal tracking, and progress updates.
• Goals and OKRs: Align individual or team goals with overall organizational objectives, track progress, and provide feedback.
  
  

All-in-one employee engagement platform options 

14. Lattice

G2 Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Best for: Streamlined performance management and goal-setting

Lattice offers a unified platform for various HR functions, enabling strategic, data-driven decisions to cultivate winning cultures. This tool assists managers with setting and tracking team goals, measuring employee engagement and satisfaction, as well as identifying areas for improvement.

Key features:

• Flexible Performance Review Software: Customize performance reviews and provide continuous feedback.
• Goal-Setting and Tracking: Set and monitor individual and company goals.
• 180- and 360-degree Reviews: Manage comprehensive reviews with customized questions.
• Manager-Employee Check-ins: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings between managers and employees.
• Analytics and Insights: Gain actionable insights from robust analytics tools.
  
  

15. CultureAmp

G2 Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Best for: Data-driven improvement of engagement, retention, and performance

The Culture Amp platform collects and interprets employee feedback to enhance workplace culture, offering a suite of features and tailored surveys to help businesses create effective people strategies. Personalized employee dashboards motivate team members to achieve their full potential.

Key features:

• Actionable Insights: Obtain data-driven insights into employee engagement and performance.
• Employee Feedback: Gather feedback through a variety of tailored surveys, including deep dive, pulse, and engagement surveys.
• Turnover Prediction: Predict turnover using machine learning algorithms that analyze engagement and performance data.
• High-Performance Enablement: Identify and apply attributes of high-performing individuals.
• Personalized Dashboards: Offer real-time insights with personalized dashboards that empower improved engagement and performance.
  
  

Challenges of employee engagement tools

While employee engagement tools can greatly enhance workplace dynamics, businesses must overcome challenges when adopting these technologies. To maximize employee engagement tools, consider the following factors:

• Tech Adoption: Effectively using new tools requires your team to embrace them. You can make adoption easier by providing comprehensive training, continuous support, and leading by example.
• Integration with Existing Systems: In a recent survey, 38% of small businesses said integration challenges prevented them from adopting new technologies. It's essential to ensure your new tools can work seamlessly with current systems to avoid causing disruptions.
• Cost: While there are affordable and even free employee engagement tools available, some can be expensive, making them difficult for smaller businesses or startups to afford. A careful balance between cost and functionality is key.
• Security and Privacy: The protection of your team's data should be a top priority. Make sure to select tools that align with your company's security policies and industry regulations.
• Overwhelming Choice: There are many options on the market, which makes the selection process challenging. Identify what you need from an engagement tool to simplify your decision-making process.

To put new tools into practice, keep in mind your employees' needs and work habits, plan carefully, and communicate clearly. The effort is certainly worth it, as small businesses that readily adopt new technologies can see a 120% increase in average revenue.

FAQ

Boost employee engagement with Happeo

Engaging your team at all levels requires investing in the right employee engagement tools. Learn how a user-friendly, integrated tool like Happeo can transform your organization. Check out this video or request a demo to witness firsthand how Happeo can revolutionize your employee engagement.