Social recognition and employee engagement: The effect of social media in organizations

Abstract

In the contemporary dynamic business context (characterized by stiff competition, high uncertainty, growth of global as well as virtual organizations, etc.), setting up systems for recognizing and engaging employees which need constant endeavor from present-day organizations. Hence, organizations are actively exploring and adopting novel initiatives through strategies platforms for their employer engaging effort, moving the organization image to the “company of employee’s choice” and connecting their strategic talent acquisition supply chain into that eco-system. Qualitative data analysis through 65 semi-structured interviews with employees working with various Software and Research & Development sectors, Human Resources and Talent Management professionals working for information technologies companies, IT-enabled (Business Process Outsourcing) BPO, and KPO (Knowledge Process Outsourcing) Services, as well as talent acquisition organizations, confirm the utilization of social media for social recognition & employee engagement in their organizations. The study contributes to the fields of talent management and social networks and has several key messages for practitioners regarding the expediency and effectiveness of social networks in organizations.