Engaging Stakeholders – Attracting, Engaging and Developing People

Abstract

Research Question (RQ): Does the implementation of EFQM excellence model have positive impact on employees?

Purpose: We want to establish how implementation of EFQM helps organizations to retain their employees.

Method: Research article is based on review of literature in Slovenian and English. Articles from established scientific publications that address topics of EFQM excellence model, human resource management, employee fluctuation, talent management, employer branding and culture of the organization.

Results: The results of the literature review clearly show that the use of the EFQM Excellence Model has a positive and multidimensional impact on employees and on human resource processes in organizations. The EFQM Model systematically places employees at the center of organizational activities and treats them as a key resource for sustainable excellence. Organizations that follow EFQM principles establish more transparent, fair, and inclusive HR practices, which is reflected in higher employee satisfaction, greater engagement, and lower turnover rates. Within the EFQM framework, learning and development are closely linked to innovation, organizational performance, and sustainable competitive advantage.

Organization: Employees represent the key asset of an organization, and their engagement is an important source of competitive advantage. The article confirms that the application of the EFQM Model enables organizations to systematically reduce employee turnover, improve organizational climate and increase the effectiveness of human resource practices. This leads to a reduction in costs associated with staff turnover, while simultaneously strengthening the long-term performance and sustainability of organizations.

Society: Higher employee satisfaction and engagement have a positive effect on the quality of working life, the psycho-social well-being of individuals and society in general. Organizations that operate in accordance with EFQM principles contribute to the development of a responsible, inclusive, and sustainability-oriented society, as well as to long-term economic growth.

Originality: The study holistically links the EFQM Excellence Model with contemporary human resource management concepts such as employer branding, employee engagement, and talent management, and incorporates findings from various sectors and geographical contexts. In doing so, it contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of EFQM in achieving sustainable organizational excellence.

Limitations/Future Research: The study is based on a review of existing literature and does not include empirical collection of primary data. Future research could include longitudinal and comparative empirical studies that would track the impact of the implementation and maturity of the EFQM Model on employee satisfaction, engagement, and retention over a longer period of time across different types of organizations.