WORK ENGAGEMENT
A STUDY WITH OUTSOURCED PROFESSIONALS IN THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5752/P.1984-6606.2024v24n68p41-61Keywords:
Work Engagement, Measurement of Work Engagement, Work Engagement Scales, Multiple Job Holdings, OutsourcingAbstract
This study examines the level of work engagement among outsourced technicians in the Brazilian telecommunications sector, a key area within the national economy that faces challenges due to increasing outsourcing trends. Utilizing the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-17), validated for the Brazilian context, the study measures engagement across three dimensions: vigor, dedication, and absorption. Data were collected from 366 broadband technicians through an online questionnaire, resulting in a high overall engagement score (M=4.97, SD=1.02), particularly in the dimensions of vigor and dedication. However, the absorption dimension showed a lower score, indicating potential difficulties in achieving full immersion in work tasks, which may raise concerns about emotional and cognitive strain. The analysis also identified a subgroup of 91 technicians with significantly lower engagement levels, particularly younger and single workers, highlighting the influence of demographic factors on engagement. The findings suggest that while high levels of engagement can be cultivated even in outsourced work environments, organizations must focus on strategies that promote not only energy and commitment but also healthy detachment from work to ensure long-term sustainability. The study contributes to the literature on work engagement by offering insights into the specific context of outsourced workers and suggests directions for future research, including the need for more diverse samples and the development of new engagement scales tailored to different employment contexts.