Impact of Internal Communication on Employee Engagement in Remote Work Environments: A Case of China United Network Communications Group Co. Ltd
Abstract
Internal communication plays a vital role in maintaining employee engagement, especially in remote work settings where face-to-face interaction is limited. This study investigated the impact of internal communication on employee engagement in remote work environments through a systematic literature review focused on China United Network Communications Group Co., Ltd (China Unicom). The research found that effective internal communication significantly enhances employee engagement in remote work environments by fostering clarity, trust, and a sense of inclusion. Literature analysis revealed that employees at China Unicom demonstrated higher levels of motivation and commitment when communication was timely, culturally sensitive, and participatory. The study also established that leadership communication style and the use of localized digital platforms played a crucial role in maintaining engagement among remote teams within the organization. Moreover, the study found that when China Unicom promoted two-way dialogue and recognized employee contributions through digital communication platforms, the organization observed increased levels of vigor, dedication, and absorption—key indicators of engagement. Tools such as Tencent Meeting, DingTalk, and WeCom were noted as especially effective when integrated with structured communication protocols and empathetic leadership communication. The research also observed that inclusive communication helped mitigate the negative psychological effects of remote isolation, thereby reinforcing a shared sense of belonging among China Unicom's diverse workforce. These findings support previous literature emphasizing the importance of internal communication satisfaction in predicting perceived organizational support and employer attractiveness. The study concluded that internal communication is a critical determinant of employee engagement in remote work settings, particularly when it is transparent, inclusive, and participatory. The study recommended that China United Network Communications Group Co., Ltd invest in structured, culturally responsive internal communication strategies using accessible platforms and that leaders be trained in empathetic, digital-first communication practices to sustain engagement in diverse remote teams.
Keywords: Internal Communication, Employee Engagement, China United Network Communications Group Co., Ltd, Remote Work, Telecommunications
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