Determinants of Work Engagement in the Public Sector: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Agenda

Abstract

Aims: This systematic literature review describes recent research on factors determining work engagement, especially within the public sector, and explores possible agendas for upcoming studies. Methodology: This systematic literature review includes 30 articles published from 2000 to 2023, indexed in Scopus Q1. The databases accessed include API Key Scopus from Harzing's Publish or Perish, Science Direct, and Emerald. Articles were chosen according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria to analyze and synthesize information to achieve the research objectives. Findings: Factors influencing work engagement among public sector employees include job/task-related, individual/personal, and organizational/contextual factors. Leadership factors are also essential for enhancing work engagement across different sectors. Regardless, only a few pieces of literature published in Q1-indexed journals have investigated how leadership influences work engagement. Research Limitations/Implications: This study highlights the contributions and analyses of several research articles focused on public-sector work engagement. Nevertheless, the sources reviewed are limited in scope. Additionally, identifying research areas that require further exploration can offer a more thorough insight into this topic. Originality/Value: This research seeks to clarify the development of studies on the public sector that focus on the factors affecting work engagement. It highlights a partial understanding of factors from the perspectives of researchers and the public sector. This study can contribute to the in-depth understanding of public sector research on the determinants of work engagement, thus offering valuable insights for future research.