30 Best Employee Engagement Tools in 2024

Employee engagement is not new. However, it continues to be a challenging area for many organizations. The June 2023 Gartner survey found that only 31% of employees report they are engaged, enthusiastic, and energized by their work. This, arguably, signals a widespread issue in corporate culture and management practices. It’s pretty obvious there’s a disconnect between employee expectations and their workplace realities.

Team lunches and team-building activities are great. Still, we have to consider the fact that, now more than ever, the dispersion of workforce across various locations – and often, time zones – adds layers of complexity to fostering a sense of unity, belonging, and motivation among employees, especially for remote and frontline workers.

This is where employee engagement tools enter the equation.

Foundry found that 93% of organizations have adopted, or have plans to adopt, a digital-first business strategy. It’s not surprising modern workplaces leverage digital tools to address employee engagement challenges. At the end of the day, engaged employees are more productive, increase profitability, and help reduce turnover*.

From the definition and benefits of employee engagement tools to the best options based on specific areas of focus, this is the only guide you’ll ever need when choosing the right employee engagement tool for your workforce.

What are employee engagement tools?

Employee engagement tools are specialized software solutions designed to, basically, improve the relationship between an organization and its employees.

Given the fact that digital tools are increasingly popular due to their scalability, ease of access, and ability to analyze data, it’s worth noting that employee engagement tools don’t have to be limited to software solutions. There are also many non-digital approaches that can be highly effective, such as in-person meetings or one-on-ones, company outings, and, as mentioned earlier, team launches and team-building activities.

Overall, employee engagement tools help you figure out how everyone’s feeling, what they love, and maybe not so love about their jobs. And all these employee engagement activities, online or not, are part of a much bigger, multifaceted discipline of employee experience.

What are the key features of employee engagement tools?

Employee engagement tools can vary widely in their features and functionalities, but there are several common features that most of them share.

• Surveys and feedback – One of the most common features of employee engagement tools is the ability to create and distribute surveys. These surveys are designed to collect constructive feedback on various aspects of the work environment, including job satisfaction, leadership effectiveness, and team dynamics, to name a few.
• Analytics and reporting – Employee engagement tools often provide analytics and reporting features that allow managers and HR professionals to analyze the survey data. These insights can help identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.
• Goal setting and performance tracking – Many tools include features that allow employees and managers to set goals and track performance. This can include personal development goals, team objectives, or company-wide targets. Tracking progress towards these goals can be motivating and help ensure alignment across the organization.
• Recognition and rewards – Features that facilitate the recognition of employee achievements and contributions are also common. This can range from simple “thank you” messages to more formal rewards programs that provide tangible benefits for outstanding performance.
• Communication and collaboration – To foster a sense of community and improve teamwork, many employee engagement platforms include communication and collaboration tools. These can include internal social networks, messaging platforms, and forums for sharing ideas and best practices.
• Learning and development – Offering resources for personal and professional development is another way these tools can help improve engagement. This might include access to online courses, training modules, onboarding exercises, or pathways for career advancement.
• Well-being support – Recognizing the importance of mental and physical health in overall employee engagement, some tools include features aimed at supporting well-being. This could involve access to wellness programs, mental health resources, or tools for managing work-life balance.
• Customization and integration – Finally, the ability to customize the tool to fit the specific needs of an organization and integrate with existing HR and IT systems is a valuable feature. This can include custom survey questions, branding options, and integration with other software tools used by the company.

While not every employee engagement tool will include all these features, most will offer a combination of several to help organizations better understand and improve their employees’ workplace experience.

Benefits of employee engagement tools

The benefits of employee engagement tools largely stem from the features they offer. These features address various aspects of the company’s work environment. For example, features that facilitate easier and more open communication, like messaging apps, forums, and feedback forms, can help improve transparency and foster a sense of belonging among employees. This ultimately leads to better problem-solving and collaboration.

Naturally, tools that offer ways to recognize and reward employees for their contributions can significantly boost morale and motivation. This, again, results in increased productivity and job satisfaction.

If we’re looking at more specific challenges like employee well-being, there are employee engagement platforms that offer features aimed at promoting physical and mental health, such as wellness challenges, health tips, and access to mental health resources. This not only supports employee well-being but also contributes to reducing employee turnover and absenteeism.

And as most, if not all, employee engagement tools offer analytics and reporting capabilities, the biggest benefit must be data that can provide leaders with valuable insights into team dynamics, engagement levels, and areas for improvement. This data can inform strategic decisions and help tailor initiatives to boost engagement.

Ultimately, how effective these tools are in delivering benefits is closely tied to how well they are aligned with the challenges you want to address and your organizational objectives. That is, if your company is struggling with communication barriers between management and staff, there’s quite a slim chance a tool that focuses on well-being can help solve this. It’s only ideal that the tool you end up choosing is directly addressing the root causes of the issues at hand (in this scenario a platform that addresses a lack of communication in the workplace) – the last thing you need is another software nobody makes use of.

Best employee engagement tools for internal communication

Internal communication and employee engagement go hand in hand. In most cases, people need easy and organic ways to communicate and receive communications in order to be engaged. Sounds like a no brainer, right? Despite this, improving communication remains to be a top challenge for employers and the number one complaint from employees. If your focus is to strengthen employee engagement and communication, here’s some of the best employee engagement software solutions to explore.

1. Slack

Slack remains at the forefront, revolutionizing internal communication. Its intuitive interface, coupled with powerful integration capabilities, enables seamless collaboration across departments. Slack’s tailored channels and direct messaging foster an environment where information flows freely. This ensures that every team member is on the same page. Beware though. While Slack is an excellent tool for internal communication, if you’re looking for a platform that bundles everything your organization needs, there are limitations because Slack is not an intranet.

2. Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams further solidifies its position as an indispensable tool for organizations by offering robust features that support not only messaging and video conferencing but also integration with the Microsoft 365 suite. This deep integration facilitates a cohesive platform where documents, spreadsheets, and presentations can be co-authored, shared, and collaborated on in real time, bridging gaps between remote and in-office teams.

3. Google Meet

For Google-tenant companies, Google Meet offers a streamlined, secure video conferencing solution that integrates flawlessly with Google Workspace. Its intuitive interface allows for easy scheduling of meetings directly from Google Calendar. Google Meet also supports large meetings (up to 500 participants), live streaming, and recording capabilities, making it versatile for various communication needs.

4. Zoom

Zoom has rapidly become synonymous with virtual meetings thanks to its reliability, flexibility, and extensive feature set. With features like breakout rooms, screen sharing, and virtual backgrounds, Zoom facilitates engaging and productive meetings. The platform is also designed to deliver smooth, stable video conferencing, even in lower bandwidth environments.

4. Workplace from Meta

Workplace from Meta breaks down silos and promotes a sense of community through a social media-like interface. With a look and feel similar to Facebook, the platform offers a low learning curve and, in turn, encourages high adoption rates among employees. Features like News Feed, Groups, and Chat facilitate seamless communication and information sharing.

Best employee engagement tools for project management

Safe to say employees engaged with their work will deliver better project results, right? The best tools will make project collaboration, task management, and communication easier and organized, so that teams who are in the same office or on opposites sides of a country can still work together. Here’s the top employee engagement platforms designed specifically for internal collaboration.

6. ClickUp

Thanks to its highly customizable interface, ClickUp is designed to adapt to various work preferences and project management styles. With ClickUp, tasks can be viewed and managed through multiple lenses, including lists, boards, calendars, and Gantt charts. This flexibility ensures that teams, from software development to marketing, can select the most effective way to visualize their workflow and project timelines.

7. Asana

Asana has emerged as a leader in project management, providing teams with a visual overview of their projects. Asana’s customizable workflows and task assignments promote clarity and accountability, which helps ensure that projects are completed efficiently and effectively. It supports various PM methodologies, from simple to-do lists to complex workflows, making it adaptable to any team’s needs.

8. Monday.com

Monday.com positions itself as a Work Operating System (Work OS) that powers teams to run projects and workflows with confidence. Its colorful, intuitive interface and automation features simplify planning and tracking, which helps ensure teams stay aligned and can focus on what matters most.

9. Trello

With its Kanban-style boards, Trello offers a flexible approach to project management. Its boards, lists, and cards enable teams to organize tasks, track progress, and manage deadlines visually. Trello’s simplicity and customization options make it a popular choice for teams looking to streamline their project management processes.

Best employee engagement tools for employee feedback

A problem many companies run into is a leadership team out of touch with what employees need and feel about their workplace. The only way to make changes that matter is to get honest feedback from employees. Employee surveys are the best way to do this because they provide a safe place to collect information from a large group of people. There is no possible way to make meaningful improvements and build a positive company culture without giving employees a voice.

10. JotForm

JotForm simplifies the creation of custom online forms, surveys, and questionnaires, making it easy to gather and manage employee feedback. Its drag-and-drop interface allows for quick form building without the need for coding skills. JotForm’s versatility extends to various types of feedback collection, from employee satisfaction surveys to performance reviews.

11. SurveyLegend

SurveyLegend offers an engaging and visually appealing way to create surveys and polls. Its user-friendly platform supports the creation of beautifully designed surveys that work on any device, which significantly influences response rates. With real-time analytics and insights, SurveyLegend helps organizations effectively gather and analyze employee feedback.

12. SurveyMonkey

SurveyMonkey is a leading tool for online surveys, known for its ease of use and powerful analytics. It enables companies to conduct employee engagement surveys, market research, and more. SurveyMonkey’s robust feature set includes question libraries, branching logic, and customizable templates. Without a doubt, it’s a comprehensive solution for gathering actionable feedback.

Best employee engagement tools for learning and development

Employee development are huge priorities for the modern worker (just look at what motivates Gen Z employees.) If an employer is invested in the growth of their employees, the employee, in turn, will be invested in their employer. This has a direct correlation to how engaged employees are in what they do and who they do it for. Check out these employee engagement platforms built for development programs and initiatives.

13. Learn Amp

Learn Amp combines learning, engagement, and performance management into one platform, which is designed to enhance employee satisfaction and growth. It’s a holistic solution for building a culture of continuous learning and development thanks to key features like a learning management system (LMS), employee engagement tools, and performance tracking.

14. iSpring Learn

iSpring Learn is an LMS that excels in delivering a seamless learning experience. Its intuitive design allows for the rapid creation and distribution of online courses, quizzes, and simulations. Integrated with powerful authoring tools, iSpring Learn facilitates the development of engaging content that supports employee growth and development.

15. Go1

Go1 serves as a comprehensive learning platform that aggregates training content from top providers such as MindGym, Thomson Reuters, and Coursera, to name a few. It offers a vast library of courses covering various topics, from compliance to professional development. With Go1, businesses can easily provide their employees with access to a diverse range of learning opportunities.

16. Kallidus

Kallidus optimizes employee learning and development through its intuitive LMS that supports a variety of learning styles with e-learning modules, video training, and interactive sessions. It enables organizations to customize L&D programs to meet workforce needs. With robust tracking and reporting, Kallidus ensures learning outcomes align with organizational goals and employee retention.

17. Absorb LMS

Absorb LMS delivers an engaging learning experience that adapts to any organization’s size. It offers personalized learning paths with a mix of self-paced and instructor-led options, accessible on any device for learning on the go. Features like social learning, gamification, and AI recommendations keep learning relevant and engaging. Absorb LMS is ideal for companies looking to enhance their L&D strategies with effective programs that boost employee engagement and development.

Best employee engagement tools for recognition and rewards

One of the best ways to boost engagement is to incorporate peer recognition into your employee engagement strategy. The ability to give virtual high-fives, celebrate wins, and tap into gamification helps promote positive work behavior and brings people together. Luckily, there’s a lot of options on the market. Here’s some of the best platforms that allow organizations to recognize and reward employees for their hard work and achievements, fostering a culture of appreciation and motivation.

18. Bonusly

Bonusly stands out as a pioneering platform in employee recognition. It allows peers to easily give and receive recognition, which can be tied to tangible rewards like instant gift cards, cash-out options, charitable donations, and company swag. Bonusly integrates with popular communication tools, making recognition a natural part of the workday and fostering a positive, collaborative culture.

19. Kudos

Kudos is a recognition and rewards platform that emphasizes the power of personal appreciation. It enables employees to send, as the name suggests, kudos to colleagues to celebrate achievements and milestones. With customizable rewards and insights into recognition trends, Kudos helps build a culture of appreciation that drives engagement and performance.

20. Mo

Mo helps companies build a culture of recognition by providing employees with automated reminders that prompt them to reflect, appreciate, and celebrate one another. Recognition can be top-down or peer-to-peer, and employees can redeem their rewards credit for gift cards from big brands on Mo’s or their own company’s rewards stores.

21. Perkbox

Perkbox delivers a comprehensive employee experience platform that includes perks, recognition, and wellness. The perks range from discounts and freebies to health and wellness benefits, while the recognition tool allows for instant peer recognition. Perkbox’s holistic approach helps improve employee satisfaction and retention.

22. Nectar

Nectar provides a flexible recognition and rewards platform that supports a positive workplace culture. Its features include peer-to-peer recognition, company-wide awards, and a customizable rewards catalog. Nectar’s ease of use and integration with existing tools make it a valuable addition to any employee engagement strategy.

Best employee engagement tools for health and wellness

Employees want to work at a place that cares about their health and wellbeing. This not only increases employee satisfaction, but also adds to the public reputation and feelings customers have about your organization. If you carve out space for the mental and physical health of your people, you’ll see a more motivated and present workforce. Check out these employee engagement solutions built with health and wellness programs in mind.

23. Headspace for Organizations

Headspace for Organizations is dedicated to improving employee well-being through mindfulness and meditation. By offering well-being tools like guided meditations, coaching, therapy, psychiatry services, mindfulness practices, and EAP services, Headspace for Organizations can play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy, balanced, and engaged workforce.

24. YuMuuv

YuMuuv is a wellness app that encourages physical activity through friendly competition and challenges. It allows teams to track their activity levels, set goals, and celebrate achievements. YuMuuv’s gamified approach makes wellness engaging and accessible and promotes a healthy and active workplace culture.

25. Wellable

Wellable is a wellness technology platform that focuses on physical health, mental well-being, and nutrition. It offers challenges, wellness content, and health coaching to engage employees in healthy behaviors. Wellable’s customizable programs and analytics support a holistic approach to employee wellness.

26. Unmind

Leading with science, Unmind is a platform focused on mental health that offers tools and content designed to improve workplace well-being. Its features include assessments, learning modules, and proactive support for mental health. When employees are empowered to take control of their mental health, it fosters a supportive and resilient organizational culture.

Best employee engagement tools for company culture

Studies show that employees want to work at a place that represents a mission that they believe in. In some cases, workers are willing to accept a job that’s lower than the salary they want in exchange for an organization that’s people-centric, has a great reputation, and takes care of their employees. In our digital world, a digital workplace is your best option to support everything employee engagement.

27. Happeo

Happeo is an all-in-one platform that combines intranet, collaboration, and social networking features to enhance company culture and internal communication. Its customizable interface and integration capabilities make it easy for employees to connect, share ideas, and stay informed, strengthening organizational unity and engagement.

28. Culture Amp

Culture Amp distinguishes itself with its deep-dive analytics and people science. It offers powerful analytics and insights on employee engagement, performance, and retention. Culture Amp’s suite of surveys and tools supports a data-driven approach to cultivating a positive and productive company culture.

29. LumApps

LumApps is an enterprise communication platform that connects employees with the information, tools, and people they need. Its personalized content delivery and collaboration features enhance internal communication and foster a sense of belonging, which can support a strong and inclusive company culture.

Best all in one tool for employee engagement

30. Axero

We built Axero because we believe work should be a place where you feel connected, appreciated, and excited to contribute. It’s more than just software; Axero is a commitment to a better, more engaged workplace.

Here’s just a peek into what makes Axero rock! (And we’re not just saying that because it’s ours.)

• From integrated chat messaging to activity streams and enterprise-level blogging platform (which are waaay easier than WordPress), our communication tools are designed to democratize all comms!
• Axero’s Task Management, among other productivity tools, provides employees with visibility on what’s due and when, and who’s responsible for getting it done. And it’s ready to use within the platform.
• When it comes to getting employee feedback, our polls and surveys can be utilized to take a pulse with flexible question options, real-time results, and anonymous response options to give your employees a safe place to share their honest thoughts.
• Axero’s knowledge base, which is available directly within the platform, can host a wide range of training materials such as manuals, instructional videos, FAQs, and e-learning modules. Plus, our forums, blogs, and wikis can be particularly useful for onboarding new employees, sharing best practices, and building a culture of continuous learning.
• Our employee recognition tool encourages everyone to show gratitude to each other by awarding a badge, or many! Our default badges include both Kudos badges (like Thank You, Great Job, and Employee of the Month badges) and Challenge badges (like Read the Employee Handbook, Complete Your Profile, and Event Planner badges). Fret not, you can create your own too!

• You can also create a dedicated space to share information about your company’s health and wellness programs as well.

And sure, we might be tooting our own horn here, but when you’ve got something this good, it’s hard not to share. Axero isn’t just about making things easier; it’s about making them better – for everyone from the CEO to the newest intern.

So, there you have it. Axero: your all-in-one, make-life-better, how-did-I-ever-live-without-it employee engagement platform. We’re here to make work feel less like, well, work. And we think that’s something worth boasting about.

Book a demo today and see Axero in action for yourself!