At the halfway mark of 2025, Gallup’s latest report on employee engagement reveals a sobering truth: only 32% of U.S. employees are engaged in their work. That stagnation is costing businesses a staggering $2 trillion in lost productivity. And while the stats are eye-opening, the real question is: What can leaders do about it?
We’ve been helping organizations tackle the engagement gap for years. Let’s break down Gallup’s key findings—and how we’re helping solve them through flexible recognition, real-time feedback, and purpose-driven rewards.
1. Culture Feels Isolated—Especially for Gen Z and Remote Workers
“32% describe their workplace as isolated or impersonal… Gen Z (44%) and remote employees (41%) feel the most disconnected.”
Our Take: Culture doesn’t happen by accident—it happens through consistent, visible effort. In hybrid and remote environments, building emotional connection requires tools that promote shared values and personalized appreciation.
Try This: Send curated gift cards that reflect your organization’s mission, like sustainable brands, donation-based options, or wellness-focused merchants.
Learn more with these resources:
→ Increasing Employee Loyalty with Positive Work Culture
→ How to Manage Remote Worker Stress with Wellness Incentive Programs
→ Addressing Employee Detachment: Strategies to Reconnect & Reengage Your Workforce
Ask Bianca AI (in the lower right corner of your browser or on this page): “Which gift cards in the Engage2Reward Platform catalog promote connection or purpose for remote teams?”
2. Leadership Transparency Is Lacking
“29% say they lack clear, honest, or consistent communication from leaders.”
Our Take: When leaders go silent, trust breaks down. Recognition can reinforce visibility and consistency, especially when tied to transparent behaviors and outcomes.
Try This: Empower managers to send on-the-spot rewards for team contributions that align with strategic goals. Add a short, personalized message for impact.
Read next:
→ Leadership That Listens: Building Momentum Through Action & Accountability
→ Bridging the Leadership Culture Gap: Addressing Disparity with Engagement Strategies
→ Workplace Communication Strategies: Ensuring Honest Employee Feedback
Ask Bianca AI: “What’s a good gift card to pair with a message about team collaboration or hitting a milestone?”
3. Employees Feel Underinvested In
“25% of employees say their organizations underinvest in people, pay, tools, or staffing.”
Our Take: Compensation is just the beginning. Employees want to see ongoing investment in tools, staffing support, and moments of appreciation that feel earned.
Try This: Create a quarterly recognition program where top performers choose from a menu of curated gift cards. Bonus points for offering filtered options based on employee preferences.
Read next:
→ Recognition That Resonates: Low-Cost Employee Appreciation in Tight Times
Ask Bianca AI: “Can you help me build a gift card campaign for high-performing teams on a budget?”
4. Feedback and Development Are Falling Behind
“Only 14% cite strong feedback or development. Many still rely on outdated performance management.”
Our Take: Employees need frequent feedback to stay motivated—not just annual reviews. Recognition tied to progress, learning, or collaboration helps drive clarity and growth.
Try This: Use delivery features in the Engage2Reward™ Gift Card Ordering Platform to send recognition tied to coaching moments, peer mentorship, or upskilling completions.
Read next:
→ Employee Learning & Constructive Criticism: How to Give Feedback That Builds Confidence
→ The Power of Peer Recognition: How to Build a Culture of Appreciation
→ Talent Retention Strategies: How to Motivate, Grow & Keep Your Workforce
Ask Bianca: “How can I recognize team members for completing training or mentoring others?”
5. What Employees Want Most: Hope
“Gallup: Employees want hope—clarity, consistency, and credibility from leadership.”
Our Take: Hope isn’t fluff—it’s knowing where the team is headed and how individual efforts contribute. Recognition provides that signal. A thoughtful reward shows people they’re seen and valued, especially when aligned with your vision.
Try This: Launch a recognition theme each quarter: “Purpose,” “Progress,” or “People First.” Use the Engage2Reward Platform to distribute aligned gift cards and messaging.
Keep reading:
→ Top 7 Employee Recognition Trends to Watch in 2026
→ Employee Recognition Programs Reflect Company Values
→ What is Employee Recognition? Definition, Meaning & Importance
Ask Bianca: “What gift card brands align with our values to support a purpose-themed recognition program?”
Want to close the engagement gap in your organization? Give your team the recognition tools they need to feel valued, heard, and motivated.
