Andrew Jackson, MD of the Government Solutions Business at Kenexa, said: “David MacLeod and Nita Clarke’s ‘Engaging for success’ report provides further evidence that engagement can enhance employee well-being and improve productivity and innovation.
“UK organisations will need practical ‘how to’ help to overcome employee cynicism and other barriers to engagement. There are compelling examples showing how engagement has transformed organisations and it will be important for others to learn the lessons of success from these best practice workplaces.
“The evidence from more than 20,000 workers surveyed through WorkTrends™, the Kenexa Research Institute’s survey on worker opinions, is unequivocal. We’ve found there is a clear correlation between the levels of pride, satisfaction, advocacy and retention and the performance of both individuals and organisations. Our research indicates that in 2009, employee engagement in the UK, in absolute terms, is 54%, compared to a global figure of 56% and a highest of 73% (India). It is clear from these figures that there is considerable room for improvement in the UK.
“Our research provides clears pointers to organisations on how to improve engagement in their workforces and unlock the true potential of their principal asset. Employees say they are engaged
by: leaders who inspire confidence; managers who respect and recognise employees; exciting work and organisations that demonstrate a genuine responsibility to their employees.
“Therefore organisations that recognise the value of their employees’
work and promote a sense of security about the future of the organisation, and the role of individuals within it, will see an improvement in engagement.
“The Review’s recommendation of having a senior sponsor group to raise awareness and understanding of engagement will certainly help UK organisations. I look forward to seeing the details of the practical support for organisations that the government has pledged to provide by March 2010.”