What is meant by 'employee engagement'?

Employee engagement refers to the emotional commitment that an employee has to their organization and its goals. When employees are engaged, they are not just physically present at work; they are also mentally and emotionally invested in their work and the success of the organization. This commitment often leads to higher levels of productivity, better job performance, and increased employee retention.

An engaged employee feels a connection to their workplace, which can manifest in various ways, such as a willingness to go above and beyond, increased creativity, and a proactive attitude toward problem-solving and collaboration with colleagues. This emotional attachment can also enhance an employee's overall job satisfaction, making them more likely to advocate for the organization.

In contrast, financial rewards, while important, do not encapsulate the full meaning of engagement. Similarly, the number of hours someone works does not necessarily indicate their level of commitment or connection to the company. Lastly, while feedback sessions can support engagement, simply having them does not define engagement itself. They can be tools for fostering engagement but are not the core concept of what engagement truly means.