This recognition category is based on satisfaction with job fit, autonomy and resources. High degrees of job satisfaction are essential to an engaged workforce. The statements considered for this category are foundational to the faculty/staff experience.
The perception that one is compensated fairly and that benefits are adequate plays an important role in employees feeling valued and respected. This recognition category is based on survey items capturing satisfaction with the benefits offered and compensation.
Support for faculty/staff professional development is critical both in terms of building organizational capacity and supporting individual development needs. This recognition category is based on survey items related to onboarding processes, professional development opportunities, and support for career development.
Understanding an institution’s mission and how one’s job impacts that mission are considered primary drivers to faculty/staff engagement. In addition to mission understanding, this category is based on survey items that provide insight into the level of pride in being associated with the institution and the willingness to recommend the institution as an employer. Some of the statements considered for recognition in this category are considered key indicators as to whether a college is a great place to work.
It is widely regarded that the experience of one’s immediate supervisor is among the most important factors influencing whether an employee is truly engaged. This recognition category is based on the survey items providing insight into critical managerial competencies such as providing clear direction and constructive feedback, and ensuring effective communication and equitable treatment. The statements considered for this category speak to the particular impact a supervisor has on his/her employees.
This recognition category is based on the expressed confidence faculty and staff report in the capabilities and credibility of senior leadership. In the Great Colleges to Work For program, “senior leadership” is defined as the most senior members of the institution (e.g., chancellor or president and those who report directly to him/her).
(Faculty and Adjunct Faculty Only) The concept of shared governance is one of the most widely valued and deeply respected traditions within higher education. For many faculty, it is a core part of their experience. Consequently, this recognition category is based on faculty responses to the survey items on collaborative governance processes and decision-making. We also include the responses of adjunct faculty respondents from two-year institutions.