Employee engagement is the level of emotional commitment the employee has to the organization and its goals. Morale is a composite of feelings and attitudes of individuals and groups toward their work environment, supervision, and the organization as a whole. Morale can vary from very high to very low and can change considerably from day to day. Engagement is a more stable characteristic that is driven by the level of support, encouragement, and opportunity provided by supervisors and managers. Everyone in the organization should be concerned about engagement, although it is primarily the direct supervisor who is, and should be responsible for creating a climate that encourages engagement. Morale can be influenced by factors from outside the organization as well as by on-thejob factors. Morale, engagement, and teamwork are not synonymous, but high morale usually contributes to high productivity. The converse is also true;

employees with low morale seldom put forth their best effort. Further, individuals with high levels of engagement who assume leadership positions on teams can positively influence the engagement level and productivity of the entire team. Workplace spirituality is an effort to improve employees’ personal lives and mental outlook.

Downsizing and corporate restructuring during the past decade have created a legacy of fear among workers. Supervisors must be aware of employee needs, feelings, and perceptions because they impact morale. In general, a supervisor’s attitude and behaviors can significantly influence employee engagement and morale. P-987