Unlocking Workplace Dynamo: The Impact of Internal Trust and Communication on Igniting Work Engagement

Authors

  • Ana Nešić Tomašević Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Serbia
  • Sanja Batić Očovaj Faculty of Law and Business Studies dr Lazar Vrkatić
  • Danijela Lalić Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Serbia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7595/management.fon.2024.0005

Keywords:

Internal communication, Internal trust, Work engagement, Organizations

Abstract

Research Question: This study delves into the intricate relationships among internal communication, internal trust, and work engagement within the context of a developing business environment undergoing cultural and economic transition. Motivation: The fundamental research inquiries seek to ascertain the interconnections between the studied phenomena and elucidate the nature of these relationships. Work engagement, identified through previous research and contemporary business practices, emerges as a pivotal force with profound implications for motivation, management, and personal development within organizations. Idea: The introduction sets the stage by emphasizing the study's focus on relationships in a transitioning business environment. Subsequent sections meticulously articulate research objectives, explore the existing literature, pose research questions, and delineate the chosen methodology, elucidating the importance of standardized instruments and the rationale behind the selection of the Serbian organizational context. Results are presented with a focus on the identified correlations, leading to the formulation of two models. The subsequent discussion critically compares these models, offering insights into the implications of trust-determined communication on work engagement. Limitations are candidly acknowledged, underscoring the need for interpretative caution. Data: The research methodology predominantly employs a quantitative approach to unravel the complexities inherent in internal communication, internal trust, and work engagement. The study encompasses a substantial sample size, consisting of 708 respondents representing 16 working organizations in Serbia. Tools: To gauge these phenomena, standardized instruments such as Internal Trust, a shortened version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, and the Internal Communication Scale were employed. The anticipated results unveil robust correlations among the elements under scrutiny. Findings: The findings culminate in the proposition of two models, with structural equation modelling revealing a model where trust determines communication, subsequently influencing work engagement as the more fitting representation. This model presents a nuanced understanding of the intricate dynamics within organizational frameworks. Contribution: Despite acknowledging certain limitations in the study, the research underscores its importance in the quest for the most influential factors contributing to work engagement in organizations. The research serves as a valuable contribution to the broader discourse on organizational behaviuor, shedding light on crucial factors that influence employee engagement in evolving business landscapes.

Author Biographies

Ana Nešić Tomašević, Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Serbia

Ana Nešić Tomašević is an associate professor at Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, where she teaches courses of Sociology of Work and Sociology of Technology. She earned her PhD at the University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Sociology in 2016. Also, she received a second doctoral degree at the Faculty of Technical Sciences, Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Module of Human Resource Management in 2019. She is the author and co-author of over 40 scientific papers, one textbook and has successfully participated in various team projects, both in the academic and non-academic sectors. Her research interests include the development of work and organizations, evolution of modern societies and technology, business communication, internal communication and social participation and activism.

Sanja Batić Očovaj, Faculty of Law and Business Studies dr Lazar Vrkatić

Sanja Batić Očovaj is an assistant professor in Psychometrics and Statistics at the Faculty of Law and Business Studies dr Lazar Vrkatić. She holds a master’s degree in statistics, a magister degree in psychology and received her PhD from the University of Novi Sad in 2016. Sanja Batić Očovaj’s professional motivation is to help people to use quantitative analysis. Her research focuses on applied social psychology.

Danijela Lalić, Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Serbia

Dr. Danijela Lalić is a full professor at the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad. With over 90 scientific and professional publications, Dr. Lalić is the author of the widely regarded PR handbook, "Examples of Good Practices in Public Relations" (vols. 1–4), considered an excellent guide for professionals in communications. Focusing on the IT industry, she provides consulting services and has applied her expertise at leading companies, including Delta Holding, Microsoft Development Center Serbia, Schneider Electric, ARS Embedded Systems, and more. Dr. Lalić actively contributes to EUPRERA and serves as a national collaborator for Serbia in the European Communication Monitor.

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Published

2024-09-07

How to Cite

Nešić Tomašević, A., Batić Očovaj, S., & Lalić, D. (2024). Unlocking Workplace Dynamo: The Impact of Internal Trust and Communication on Igniting Work Engagement. Management:Journal of Sustainable Business and Management Solutions in Emerging Economies. https://doi.org/10.7595/management.fon.2024.0005

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