Amplifying worker voice is good for business.

It improves employee engagement and retention, provides company leadership with insights and information they may not easily see, and increases psychological safety in the workplace.

At the most basic level, amplifying worker voice means giving employees throughout the enterprise the freedom and avenues to discuss workplace issues that matter to them and demonstrating that you value those employees for sharing their feedback. Encouraging workers to provide input and contribute to the direction of the organization is a hallmark of good corporate culture and can enhance your ability to engage in workforce planning. Even U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy has identified worker voice and equity as critical in his framework for Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being.

The good news is that company leaders don’t need to overhaul systems or institute complex structures in order to tap into worker voice. This guide offers three accessible yet effective starting points for creating mechanisms that can amplify worker voice across your business: establishing employee “warmlines,” creating an ombuds program, and seeking input from employee resource groups (ERG).