Self-Efficacy and Work Engagement: A Sector-Specific Examination of Gender Differences in Employee Performance

Abstract

Aim of the Study: The current research study examines the connection between work engagement and self-efficacy, especially the gender difference of employees working in the private and public sectors.

Methodology: This study used a cross-sectional survey of 200 employees, equally divided between the public and private sectors. A quantitative approach examined the relationship between self-efficacy and work engagement, considering gender and sector differences. The Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) and Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) were used for measurement. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, independent t-tests, and binary logistic regression to explore relationships and group differences.

Findings: The findings revealed that employees in the public sector reported significantly higher levels of self-efficacy, vigor, and absorption compared to their private sector counterparts. Moreover, the analysis highlighted substantial disparities in work engagement across sectors, underscoring the importance of designing sector-specific strategies to address these inequities. The gender variance suggests that men are more vigorous, whereas women tend to exhibit greater self-efficacy and devotion towards work.

Conclusion: These results highlight the need for sector-and gender-based interventions to improve organisational performance, outputs, and employee engagement, as well as a more tailored approach to organisational policymaking. The research helps us understand how self-efficacy and job engagement vary between sectors and gender, which may improve employee engagement approaches.