UK employers are being held back by managers who fail to get the best out of their staff, according to new research.
The latest Workers Index published by Mori and the Work Foundation reveals that almost one in four of the 1,000 employees questioned are not inspired by their bosses and just over a quarter say senior managers fail to provide them with a clear vision.
The situation has deteriorated since the first Workers’ Index in February this year. At that time two-thirds (66%) of employees said that their managers had a clear vision for the organisation whereas now less than three in five (57%) feel this way.
Furthermore, 60% of those critical of their employer identify improving the quality of management as the top priority for the organisation, while it is mentioned by just 18% of those who would speak highly of their employer.
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The Work Foundation’s associate director – policy, David Coats, said: “There are some hard messages here for many British managers. Big improvements in communications are needed if employers are to unlock the full potential of their staff.
“The under-performers must learn a simple lesson from world-class British businesses – there is no substitute for genuine employee involvement and engagement.”