DETERMINANTS OF EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IN HOTEL INDUSTRY IN PASIKUDHA AREA

Abstract

Employee engagement is vital for success in the hospitality sector. This study explores factors influencing employee engagement in hotels in Pasikudha, Batticaloa district, Sri Lanka, focusing on Training and Development, Internal Communication, Reward, Leadership, and Employee Engagement.

Using a quantitative approach, the research surveyed 256 hotel employees with a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed through reliability analysis, descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis. Results show generally positive perceptions of these factors among employees. The mean values and standard deviations for Training and Development, internal Communication, Reward, Leadership, and Employee Engagement are 3.5551 (SD : 0.54969),3.6068 (SD: 0.4t943),3.5469 (SD:0.50117), 3.s413 (SD:0.38088), and 3.5566 (SD:0.45505), respectively. The analysis indicates strong positive relationships between these factors and employee engagement, with regression results demonstrating that training and development, reward. and leadership significantly enhance engagement. This research contributes to the understanding of employee engagement in the hotel industry by offering practical insights for human resource rnanagement. It underscores the importance of implementing effective training programs, fair reward systems, and transformational leadership practices to boost employee motivation and commitment. The findings suggest that addressing these areas can help reduce turnover rates and promote the sustainable growth of the local tourism sector. The study concludes with recommendations for hotels in Pasikudha, stressing the need for enhanced training, equitable rewards, and strong leadership to build a more engaged workforce. It also acknowledges limitations and suggests areas for future research, encouraging continued exploration into employee engagement within the hospitality industry.