Reviews
"Editor Finney, a journalist and consultant, explains what it means to love work in companies that focus on employee engagement. She notes engaged employees express satisfaction, demonstrate commitment, and advocate the organization's work ethic, products, and services. This three-volume set covers theories associated with employee engagement (v. 1); ways to create engaged cultures (v. 2); and conversations with experts and case studies of small to medium businesses (v. 3). Contributors include consultants and executives of successful firms. Key theoretical dimensions of employee engagement discussed in the first volume include company values and policies, development opportunities, interactions with people, the work environment, rewards and recognition, and job descriptions. The chapters on employee engagement surveys are the best part of volume 1. Chapter authors suggest that the weakest surveys are data driven. Survey approaches recommended include focusing on two-way interviews with employees, including quantitative and qualitative data, and trying to apply what was learned. To engage employees, contributors to the second volume suggest balancing work and home, getting top management commitment, having fun at work, coaching high-potential employees, focusing on employees' spiritual needs, using a variety of technologies to enhance workplace communication, and hiring executives aware of employee needs and compensating them based on a strategic plan rather than just the bottom line. The third volume provides case studies of how corporations such as Patagonia, Kahler Slater, Motorola, Digital Federal Credit Union, and Badger Mining Corporation engage employees.
Mixed in with the case studies are chapters that feature interviews with consultants. Additional topics covered in the third volume include talent management, employee branding, corporate universities, diversity, leadership, and employee communications.
All three volumes end with a long case study involving a major engagement effort; the three studies involve Intuit, Caterpillar, and Starwood Hotels and Resorts. All volumes mix interviews, case studies, research results, and diagrams showing engagement theories or programs. Recommended. Upper-division undergraduate through professional collections.'
"—Choice