UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT ON ATTRITION INTENT: A MEDIATION MODEL OF JOB SATISFACTION AMONG IT PROFESSIONALS IN URBAN INDIA

Abstract

India is one of the fastest-growing countries in the IT sector; employee attrition has become a major concern, especially in metro cities like Chennai. In recent years, most organizations have been investing more than ever in engagement programs, yet people continue to leave. This research study explores how employee engagement influences attrition intent among employees and analyzes whether job satisfaction plays a role in that connection. For this research, we collected data using a structured questionnaire from 350 IT professionals working in Chennai. For the analysis of data, the study uses various statistical methods, including correlation and mediation analysis, to see how emotional and psychological factors of work engagement affect attrition intent. The findings of the research study show that, though engagement helps to reduce attrition intent, it doesn't work in isolation. Employees who are engaged may still leave the company if they are not satisfied with their job, the recognition, the growth opportunity given, or the leadership. This research suggests that job satisfaction is not an optional element, but rather, it could be the missing element. Organizations that focus only on boosting engagement without looking at satisfaction might not see the results they expect. The paper ends with ideas for HR leaders on how to create engagement strategies that are more meaningful and connected to what employees truly value.