Competing through employee engagement: a proposed framework

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework through which to understand, predict and control factors affecting employee engagement in the public sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Design/methodology/approach – The paper examines research conducted in the area of employee engagement and proposes a conceptual framework that can be used by practitioners to engage employees and motivate them toward organizational growth and sustainability. Findings – In line with the literature-based analysis, a framework of employee engagement was developed, illustrating the linkage between leader, team, perceived organizational support and organizational culture that is being mediated by employee motivation. Research limitations/implications – Employee engagement as exemplified in this study is well suited for use in the public sector in the UAE. Further empirical study should be undertaken to ascertain the effect of the proposed framework and hypotheses. Practical implications – The study incorporates determinants of employee engagement in a framework that practitioners can make use of to identify interventions with which to engage and retain talented employees for organizations’ benefit. Originality/value – This paper provides a comprehensive framework that contributes to the conceptualization of employee engagement and will help practitioners as well as academics to understand the underlying causes of disengagement in organizations.