Read this post on the Coaching Tip blog about how HR departments can and should be more strategic. I'd also add that HR departments can counsel senior management on how to strategically attract and retain good quality employees by creating a workplace that people love to work in.

[tag-tec]Employee engagement[/tag-tec] is not just some managerial buzz-word, nor is it something that is easy to create in an organization.  Like many things, it takes a focused, concerted effort with buy-in throughout the management of an organization.  However Gallup has shown that its benefits can be immense.  Terrence Traut, founder of Entelechy, makes some great comments about engaging employees.   Check it out and read the "Letter from the Editor": http://unlockit.com/key/The_Key_20071204.html

Having worked with hundreds corporate groups over the past seven years and having observed many corporate teams I have identified thirteen qualities that I believe, if exemplified, will give corporate teams or companies a competitive advantage over other teams or companies.  I call them the Thirteen Qualities of the Enlightened Team.

1. Operates with a collective vision, mission and purpose.

2. Is conscious and proud of its value to the organization.

3. Strives to achieve skill mastery.

4. Cross-trains for further skill development.

5. Seeks constant process improvement.

6. Use mistakes as learning opportunities.

7. Has a high level of trust.

8. Has a high level of communication.

9. Collectively strives to achieve a healthy work-life balance.

10. Gives back.

11. Uses modern performance-enhancing techniques for higher effectiveness.

12. Is solutions-focused.

13. Leads by example.