Employee Engagement : A line managers role

In the competitive business environment, much has been written about the important role of human capital in helping to create a competitive advantage. In an environment where the global recession has led to many organisations having to cut costs and increase performance while also producing a stronger focus on customer care, the solution of how to achieve these goals can be found in having an engaged workforce. This study explored the topic of employee engagement in the public sector. The premise of this paper is that the work environment an employee works in must be conducive to the ingredients of employee engagement (trust, support, encouragement) before an employee will choose to engage in their role and that this work environment is influenced significantly by an employee's Line Manager. The research question sought to measure the effects a Line Manager has on employee engagement in the public sector, a sector which has been hit hard by the global recession. Research was conducted by using a two-part questionnaire which sought to determine a McGregor classification for each participant to this study before measuring their levels of engagement. The findings indicate a strong link between the approach taken by the Line Manager and an employee's levels of engagement. Results indicate that employees respond to a McGregor Theory Y classification by displaying a commitment and enthusiasm to their role within the organisation. Respondents who felt their Line Manager had an approach which was supportive and trusting indicated that they take pride in their work and will exert extra effort while at work