What Is Employee Engagement?

Abstract

Employee engagement is everyone's business. The chapter examines several topical issues that impact organizations and are antecedents to employee engagement. Recognizing that disengagement costs companies in the United States more than US$350 billion annually is a good start. Retention is key. The author defines employee engagement and examines the elements that comprise it, as defined by Kahn. Factors in the workplace that contribute to disengagement are examined. There is discussion about why engagement matters and how it relates to the organization's culture, public image, and customers. Stemming from this, another key question is: What is disengagement? Is it the opposite of engagement? Organizational determinants like corporate social responsibility (CSR) and communication are mentioned. Suggestions are offered to integrate the workforce in the post-pandemic world. Leadership is an integral part of an organization's success. Does leadership style facilitate engagement?