The relationship between employee engagement and work performance of administrative employees at a university of technology

Abstract

Orientation: Employee engagement and work performance of administrative employees play a pivotal role in shaping the overall success and reputation of educational institutions.
Research purpose: This study investigates whether there is a significant relationship between employee engagement and the work performance of administrative employees at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
Motivation for the study: This study aims to determine whether employee engagement contributes to improved work performance among administrative employees at TUT, providing context-specific insights within the South African higher education sector.
Research approach/design and method: A quantitative research approach and a cross-sectional survey research design were employed, involving a sample of 215 from the population of 487 administrative employees at TUT campuses. A Google Forms link containing the questionnaire was sent via Outlook email by the Human Resources Department, and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences analysis was used for data analysis.
Main findings: A strong relationship was found between employee engagement and work performance, and regression analysis confirmed that employee engagement is a significant predictor of work performance.
Practical/managerial implications: The TUT should focus on fostering employee engagement, as enhanced work performance is a natural outcome of higher engagement levels. To enhance employee engagement and work performance among administrative staff at TUT, it is recommended that targeted interventions be implemented, focusing on three key areas: performance-related engagement, interpersonal engagement and work environment support.
Contribution/value-add: Through the integration of theory and practice, this research advances understanding of organisational behaviour and provides university administrators with data-driven strategies to foster a more motivated and efficient workforce.