According to new research by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and the Australian Institute of Management, Australian managers are happier and more optimistic than their UK counterparts.
And while it's only natural to assume that this is due to sunshine, barbies, tinnies and beaches, it would appear that there are several factors:
- Australian managers are younger (17.2% of Australian respondents were under 30, compared to 8.3% in the UK)
- The economic downturn has yet to impact on Australia
- Australian managers are seem as more accessible and innovative than their UK counterparts
- Australian staff trust their mangaers more, and have greater confidence in them
- Australians are more likely to feel fairly treated by their organisations
BUT
- Australian managers work longer, with an average working week of 46.4 hours (compared to 45.6 in the UK)
- UK managers are more likely to be offered a good benefits package, including healthcare, subsidised sports facilities, health screenings and the option for sabbaticals
Ruth Spellman, CMI chief executive, says "Clearly management styles have a significant impact on morale and business performance. This survey demonstrates the importance of accessible and empowering working environments".
