What makes a workplace engaging?

Abstract

This paper proposes that engaging workplaces are those in which people can develop a sense of pride in what they do, where they can learn and achieve together, where they can find opportunities for participation and autonomy, and where they can develop a sense of camaraderie. What people need from work is briefly reviewed. What they tend to get is rigid organisational systems and out-of-date management practices. This sets the stage for a reflection on the increasingly pivotal role of the workplace in urgently adapting to the realities of a rapidly changing and increasingly complex global business environment. All of the analysis is then drawn together into a brief review of what makes a workplace engaging. The paper concludes that, despite long-available evidence linking learning and creativity to high performance and engagement, with the workplace now playing an increasingly crucial role, significant barriers will have to be overcome to make workplaces more engaging.