Strategies for Enhancing Engagement

Strategies for enhancing engagement

While there are various definitions of engagement, consistent themes exist as to how organisations can enhance engagement. A common misconception is that it is a generic process, where employees are engaged by the same factors. This does not take into account the variability that exists in individuals' motivations, values, what work means to them and the extent of their engagement; engagement comes from within the individual.

To be successful organisations must engage in a multifaceted approach, addressing the factors that influence engagement. The Hay Group's Engaged Performance Model (reference) encapsulates this as:

 Tangible rewards

 Quality of work

 Work/life balance

 Inspiration and values

 Enabling environment

 Future growth opportunity

This can be broken down into four broad categories:

a. Motivation

b. Work environment, culture and values

c. Opportunities for further growth

d. Leadership

Figure XX. Strategies for enhancing engagement

a. Motivation

A motivated workforce is more likely to be an engaged one. Abraham Maslow (reference), see figure XX, identified a needs hierarchy. At the summit is the desire to develop full potential or self-actualisation. Porter & Lawler (reference), see figure XX, extends Vroom's (reference) theory of valence, instrumentality and expectancy, and suggests that motivation is dependant not only on effort, but also on individuals' ability to undertake the task, performance and accomplishment on completing the task and resultant intrinsic and extrinsic rewards. Goal setting (Locke & Latham) and job enrichment (Herzberg) theories suggest that motivation and resultant performance of individuals can be enhanced by providing specific goals and varied and challenging jobs. Employers should recognise and reward employees' efforts.

Figure XX. Maslow's Needs Hierarchy

Figure XX. Porter & Lawler's Expectancy Model of Motivation

b. Work environment, culture and values

Organisations can facilitate an open culture where employees feel that their views are heard and respected