Author(s): Virág Imre

Title: "WE MEASURE, BUT DO NOT UNDERSTAND": STRUCTURAL FAILURES OF ENGAGEMENT MANAGEMENT IN ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXTS

Source: Š. Gubo, E. Kahler Korcsmáros, Sz. Svitek, J. Tóth (eds.): 17th International Scientific Conference of J. Selye University. Sessions of the Faculty of Economics and Informatics. Conference Proceedings

ISBN: 978-80-8122-538-3

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36007/5383.2026.299

Publisher: J. Selye University, Komárno, Slovakia

PY, pages: 2025, 299-319

Published on-line: 2026

Language: en

Abstract: Employee engagement and retention are essential for organizational performance and sustainability, yet implementation often falls short. This paper analyzes organizational and methodological distortions that limit the effectiveness of engagement systems. Drawing on 205 corporate cases and nearly three decades of HR experience, the study combines qualitative analysis with literature review to identify recurring patterns. Two main sources of distortion emerge: (1) weaknesses in measurement—conceptual, methodological, and technical—and (2) organizational-level issues such as cultural misalignment, inadequate leadership, short-term reward logic, and managerial biases. Together, these factors undermine the credibility and impact of engagement initiatives.

Keywords: employee engagement, retention management, organizational bias, measurement validity, leadership behavior, qualitative case analysis

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