PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTRACT
UK employees less engaged than European counterparts
UK workers’ levels of engagement are significantly lower than those of most of their counterparts within other major European countries, according to research conducted by Watson Wyatt.
Watson Wyatt found that only 12% of employees in the UK could be described as "fully engaged" with their business. The comparative figures for other countries were:
Only Italian employees, at 9%, were less engaged than their UK counterparts.
Impact on bottom line
"Lack of employee engagement is not just an issue for HR professionals," said Andrew Cocks, European head of employee research at Watson Wyatt. "Our research shows that it can hit the bottom line hard and is likely to put UK employers at a significant disadvantage to their European competitors. It therefore has to be seen as fundamental business issue that affects everyone."
Key drivers of engagement
According to Watson Wyatt, one factor that has consistently been shown to be a driver of constructive employee engagement is the perception that opportunities for development and advancement exist. For example, this can have much greater impact than providing satisfactory base pay.
Other factors that influence engagement include:
Watson Wyatt warns that these are all issues where the UK has been consistently shown to lag most of its major competitors.
A final word
"Constructive employee engagement has two fundamental dimensions. The first dimension is commitment to the organisation and a willingness to go the extra mile to help it succeed. The second is alignment to business objectives, with employees having a good understanding of what they need to do as individuals help the organisation to achieve its goals." -- Andrew Cocks, European head of employee research at Watson Wyatt.
Want to know more?
Title: Work Europe 2005, Watson Wyatt.
Survey sample: The survey involved a "representative sample" of more than 8,500 private sector workers from across Europe.
Availability: For more details call Watson Wyatt at its Reigate, Surrey head office, tel: 01737 241144.
Watson Wyatt is a global consulting firm "focusing on human capital and financial management". It specialises in employee benefits, human capital strategies, and insurance and financial services. Watson Wyatt has more than 6,000 associates in 88 offices around the world. To find out more visit www.watsonwyatt.com
Posted 6 January 2006