Human Capital Strategies to Foster Employee Engagement Within Post Pandemic Layoffs

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to highlight productivity and engagement issues being experienced across industries, subsequent to strategic human capital realignment, in response to changes in the business environment. The linkages among employee engagement as related to leadership communication, work-life balance, and professional development are explored as the discussion draws on previous research examining employee’s organizational behavior to leadership response within the midst of exceptional events. Design/Methodology/Approach: The authors draw upon 15+ years in general management, communications consultant, and research in organizational behavior. Findings: Research shows that the restoration of trust and a path to creating an organizational culture which invites job engagement through organizational commitment are paramount. The combination of specific strategies coupled with organizational resource management during crises such as rapid and massive layoffs, change, and uncertainty indicates the necessity for tenacity with adaptability facilitated by strategic leadership communication of a shared vision. It will be important for organizational leaders to consider human capital investment strategies that can boost engagement. Practical Implications: Within the context of uncertainty organizational leaders must communicate empathy with employees and examine how much of a role an individual’s perceived career mobility and skill competence plays in strengthening their work engagement. Employees with positive work-life balance can exercise resilience, creativity, and tenacity. As organizations tackle the varying factors related to employee retention and engagement, they should implement strategies that not only retain employees but equip them with the characteristics that define psychological capital within the future of work. Post-pandemic organizational behavioral practices must empower employees to obtain a work lifestyle that allows them to feel in control of their personal and professional trajectories. Originality/value: The current study contributes to the stream of literature on layoff anxiety, productivity issues, and the role leadership communication and human capital strategies play in bolstering employee engagement. Furthermore, the current study highlights the importance of strategic leadership communication as organizations grapple with the challenges of a post layoff exercise, such as, how to increase productivity, engagement, retention, adaptability to the future of work, and profitability for long term growth.