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Employee engagement has emerged as one of the most vital concepts underlying workforce motivation and productivity. Almost everyone who uses the concept defines it in some way as a heightened personal connection to the organization. When it comes to measuring employee engagement, most assess what someone does-the fit between skills and jobs-and where they do it-company cultures and policies. If we are truly interested in a personal connection to work, shouldn't we measure the person instead? This preliminary research examines what kinds of people can be highly engaged-passionate-about their work, using the Big Five personality dimensions. Some expected and surprising patterns emerge that suggest the need for deeper study.
You are standing in the checkout line of your local supermarket. The person taking care of you is moving along quickly, very business-like. You move through the line fast, and you are happy about that. But the cashier does not say anything to you beyond, "cash or charge? Paper or plastic?" You experience no connection with the cashier, and there is nothing exceptional about your shopping trip. You are satisfied with the checkout-it was quick, efficient and accurate-everything you could want-but nothing makes you feel like you have to go back to this store again.
You look over at another line, which is buzzing with people smiling and talking. You can see it starts with the cashier. He is smiling, calling people by name, or saying something about their purchases that makes them grin. He seems to be genuinely enjoying what he is doing and spreading his joy to his customers. To top it off, his line is moving just as fast. You are sorry you did not pick his line. Next time you will look for him.
On your way out of the store, you think about what just happened. On first thought, you believe you have just seen a highly engaged employee. Then you realize that both employees were highly involved and effective, but one was much more able to involve others emotionally. Did you really just see two levels of engagement? Or did you see something more? Maybe you saw passion for work.
From Engagement to Passion
The large and growing body of information about workforce engagement describes it as a heightened emotional...