In a recent study conducted by leading research company, Gallup it was reports that employee engagement levels in the United States have reached their highest level in three years. Although this fact shows improvement there is still much that needs to be done.
Last month Gallup researchers spoke to a random sample of 5,995 adults 18 and over, across the United States, to gauge an estimate of their engagement levels. Engagement levels were calculated based on responses to a variety of core workplace elements that are known to affect an organization’s performance results.
Gallup’s daily assessment of employee engagement has been taking place since January 2011. During this time the peak rate of engagement hovered around 30%. In March 2011 the highest engagement rate was reported at 33.8%, followed by 33.6% in January 2012. Since then, monthly engagements rates have remained below 33%.
But last month’s report found that of that sample, 32.9% were said to be actively engaged at work- the highest engagement rated reported in three years. This was an increase of 1.5% from last February’s reported engagement rate, and also a 4.8% increase on 2011’s figure of 28.1%.
A group of analysts, who have addressed the findings suggest that the improved rates may be a reflection of a number of various factors. This includes the overall improvements in the US economy- with unemployment numbers diminishing and more people finding work, the job market is becoming increasingly competitive. This would urge employers to place a greater importance on retaining the best possible staff- starting with improving their engagement strategies.
Its important to point out that although this rate has increased, the report also revealed that 50.3% of US workers were still found to be not engaged, and 16.8% actively disengaged. While the growing confidence is the economy is playing its part, engagement is also highly dependent on factors inside the workplace, such as managerial style and approaches to employee development, the study noted.
To read the full Gallup report, please click here.
