Zapojenie zamestnancov ako strategická schopnosť v malých a stredných podnikoch: Teoretický pohľad na situáciu v mestských podnikoch
Employee Engagement as a Strategic Capability in SMEs: A Theoretical Perspective on Municipal Enterprises

Summary/Abstract: Employee engagement is well-studied in large corporations, yet its theoretical application to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—particularly those operating in municipal economies—remains underexplored. This paper addresses a gap in the strategic human resource management (SHRM) literature by contextualizing engagement as a strategic capability for municipal SMEs. The primary aim is to develop a conceptual framework that links employee engagement to six SHRM domains within municipal SMEs. Secondary aims include the articulation of mediating and moderating relationships that add depth to engagement theory in resource-constrained environments. This is a theoretical review that synthesizes foundational literature across engagement and HRM domains. Key theories include Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, Transformational Leadership Theory, Self-Determination Theory, and Organizational Climate Theory. The frame-work was developed through thematic integration of peer-reviewed sources relevant to SMEs, engagement, and local governance. The model proposes that employee engagement is driven by six antecedents: work itself, compensation and benefits, work environment, leader-ship, personal growth, and opportunities to contribute. It introduces two addi-tional propositions: (1) the mediating role of work environment between leadership and engagement, and (2) the moderating role of growth opportunities in the compensation–engagement link. As a conceptual paper, empirical validation is needed. Future studies should test the model using quantitative or mixed methods across varied municipal settings. The framework provides guidance for SME managers and municipal policymakers to adopt scalable, low-cost engagement strategies aligned with local economic development goals. This paper advances SME-focused SHRM theory by integrating engagement constructs into a localized, strategic framework. It offers value to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers aiming to strengthen SME resilience and workforce sustainability in municipal economies.

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