How to Create an Employee Suggestion Program

Employee groups can be part of an employee suggestion program.

Strong employee relations can be a critical component for high productivity, motivated employees and a strong company framework. Providing an outlet for employee suggestions and feedback encourages employees to help create a rewarding work environment. The most effective employee suggestion programs offer multiple methods of feedback for increased participation and response rates.

Instructions

1. Create an anonymous feedback method. Some employees prefer to remain anonymous when providing suggestions, especially on sensitive issues or grievances. Place a locked box with a slot where employees can drop their ideas and feedback. Announce the availability of anonymous feedback and assure employees that any suggestions will be reviewed by management and processed with a high priority.

2. Establish an employee voice committee. Obtain representatives from different departments and areas of the company through nominations or voting and determine a routine schedule for committee meetings. Provide updates on company goals and projects as well as on issues that affect employees. Solicit feedback from committee members and receive suggestions in an open forum. These meetings should be held with senior management, executives and human resources representation present. Representative-based meetings help employees understand their voices are being heard and allow immediate feedback on their suggestions.

3. Establish a rewards system. Encourage employee suggestions that can help improve business processes and quality or lead to new products and services. Employees can help brainstorm for future business initiatives. Set up a formal suggestion program to generate ideas for business development and process improvements. Provide monetary rewards for suggestions that are implemented, help reduce expenses or lead to new products. Consider having a competition and public rewards to spur employee participation.

4. Respond to employee submitted suggestions in public forums. For grievances, present resolutions and problem fixes in emails, company newsletters or in group discussions. Focus on solutions, not problems, to keep a positive tone. For business suggestions, highlight the best contributions by employees at company meetings and through personal messages. Responses help encourage future participation and strengthen employee relations.

5. Expand the suggestion program. As the program matures, establish new methods of soliciting feedback such as employee focus groups or brainstorming sessions. Develop a company culture that encourages and thrives on continual improvement. Consider establishing team-building exercises with employees from different departments to help refine existing employee suggestions, brainstorm new ideas and encourage cross-company idea creation.

Tips & Warnings

• Tailor your employee suggestion program to the level of your employee base.

• Review employee suggestions in a timely manner. Taking too much time can decrease participation in the long term.

References

• Stever Robbins: Encourage Employees to Think Like Owners
• References for Business: Employee Suggestion Systems
• Freda Turner: Employee Suggestion Programs Save Money