Meaningful Work and Work Engagement: A Relationship Demanding Urgent Attention

Abstract

Abstract There are many models arguing on the work characteristics (Hackman & Oldham, 1975; Spector, 1975; Blazer et al., 2000). Sadly very few models explain as what could be of prime importance for individuals at work (Fairlie, 2011b). The current paper has attempted to outline that, out of the several antecedents empirically highlighted in the work engagement literatures; meaningful work could one of the most significant. The paper has critically appraised the literature, pin pointing towards the paucity of empirical studies on meaningful work and its relationship with work engagement and how it could be value for business practitioners to address this issue respectively. The paper has extended the idea to encourage future researchers to investigate the relationship and forward robust evidence on the importance of meaningful work for predicting work engagement and work wellbeing. The review aims to highlight meaningful work as an important job resource, necessary for enhancing psychological wellbeing at work. Keywords: Meaningful work, Work Engagement, Work wellbeing, positive psychology.