Employee engagement is a known driver of workplace success, influencing productivity, retention, and overall business performance. Yet, in South Africa, engagement levels remain alarmingly low. Understanding what engagement is, why it matters, and how well-being plays a role can help businesses foster a more committed and motivated workforce.
What is employee engagement?
Employee engagement refers to the level of enthusiasm, commitment, and involvement employees have in their work. Engaged employees don’t just show up; they contribute actively, take initiative, and align with their company’s goals. According to Gallup, engaged employees consistently drive better business outcomes, regardless of industry or economic conditions.
What does disengagement mean?
Employee disengagement occurs when employees lack enthusiasm and commitment toward their work. Disengaged employees often do the bare minimum required, have little emotional connection to their workplace, and may even harbour negative feelings toward their organisation. According to Gallup’s research, disengagement leads to higher absenteeism, lower productivity, and increased turnover, all of which negatively impact business performance.
Why is employee engagement important?
Research shows that employee engagement directly impacts business success. Gallup’s 2020 meta-analysis found that companies with high engagement levels experience:
81% lower absenteeism
18% lower turnover in high-turnover organizations
43% lower turnover in low-turnover organizations
41% fewer quality defects
18% higher productivity
23% greater profitability
These statistics highlight that disengaged employees aren’t just unmotivated – they actively cost businesses money and hinder performance.

What does employee engagement look like in South Africa?
Despite its importance, South African workplaces struggle with employee engagement. Gallup’s latest State of the Global Workplace report reveals that only 29% of South African employees are engaged at work. This means that 71% of employees are either actively disengaged or just doing the bare minimum.
Low engagement has serious consequences, leading to higher turnover, lower productivity, and a workforce that lacks motivation. Given the country’s economic challenges, addressing engagement issues is more crucial than ever.
How does well-being boost engagement?
Employee engagement and well-being are interconnected. Research indicates that engagement and well-being fuel each other – engaged employees tend to have higher well-being, and employees with strong well-being are more likely to be engaged. Burnout is a major factor in disengagement.
When burnout takes hold, employees shift from thriving to merely surviving. This results in decreased motivation, lower job satisfaction, and diminished performance. The financial cost is significant, with organisations losing an estimated 15% to 20% of total payroll due to voluntary turnover caused by burnout.
Why is corporate counselling a solution?
Corporate counselling offers a strategic approach to improving employee well-being, engagement, and overall business success. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health enables individuals to connect, cope, and thrive. Corporate counselling tackles these three aspects, creating a healthier and more productive workforce:
Helping employees connect: Corporate counselling fosters stronger relationships within teams, reduces workplace conflicts, and promotes a culture of support and collaboration.
Helping employees cope: Employees face various stressors, from workload pressures to personal challenges. Counselling equips them with coping strategies, reducing burnout and mental health struggles.
Helping employees thrive: By addressing mental health holistically, corporate counselling enhances resilience, motivation, and job satisfaction, leading to increased workplace engagement and productivity.
When employees connect, cope, and thrive, their well-being improves, workplace engagement increases, and business performance flourishes. Investing in corporate counselling is not just a benefit – it’s a necessity for long-term success.
Takeaway
Employee engagement is essential for business success, yet South African workplaces are struggling to keep employees motivated. By recognising the link between engagement and well-being, organisations can implement strategies to boost commitment, reduce burnout, and improve overall productivity. A thriving workforce leads to a thriving business – investing in engagement isn’t optional; it’s a necessity.
Disclaimer: The contents of this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References: Gallup State of the Global Workplace Report; Gallup Q12 Meta-Analysis Report; WHO Report on Burnout; WHO Mental Health Report