While Gallup is one of the best-known institutions for studying employee engagement, it’s not the only one.
Another respected organization is Aon Hewitt — a global research and consulting company with a wide range of engagement surveys and analytical tools.
Unlike Gallup, Aon Hewitt classifies employees into four categories, based on their attitude, motivation, and contribution to company success.
1. Actively Disengaged
These employees dislike their work, have no desire to grow, and make no effort to benefit the company.
They can even undermine morale and spread negativity within the team.
💡 They don’t just “not help” — they often drain collective energy.
2. Passive
They perform assigned tasks but without interest, creativity, or emotional investment.
Their work brings minimal value — neither personal growth nor business impact.
💡 They do what’s required — and nothing more.
3. Engaged
These employees do their job responsibly, strive for results, and pursue development —
but often without strong enthusiasm or emotional connection to the organization.
💡 They’re reliable — but not yet inspired.
4. Actively Engaged
Highly motivated professionals who bring ideas, creativity, and initiative.
They work not only for results but also for improvement — of themselves, the company, and the team.
They aim to add value, increase impact, and drive growth.
💡 They are the cultural backbone of a thriving organization.
How to Identify Engaged vs. Disengaged Employees
✅ Signs of an Engaged Employee
- Recommends the company as a great place to work
- Goes the extra mile to achieve results
- Takes initiative beyond their core responsibilities
(suggests improvements, joins new projects, volunteers for challenges)
⚠️ Signs of a Disengaged Employee
- Pretends to work, multitasks on unrelated things
- Avoids responsibility in complex or uncertain situations
- Misses deadlines regularly
- Works “from bell to bell” — doing the bare minimum
- Resists innovation and change
- Can’t be motivated by the manager
- Avoids communication with colleagues