You get the employee engagement you deserve. If you don't engage with them, they won't engage with you. If all you need is compliance, indirect communication is fine. If you want them to contribute, you'll need direct communication. If you want them to commit to the cause, you must make an emotional connection with them. This is particularly true at important moments of truth starting with how you onboard them. So, take onboarding personally and make it personal. Read more here