Recent research reveals significant tensions between managers and business leaders.
- Two-thirds of managers feel leadership prioritises profits over employee welfare.
- A perceived lack of support and tools impacts manager capability and morale.
- Managers express frustration over unmet expectations and communication gaps.
- There is a call for improved alignment and support from business leaders.
Recent findings from Perkbox Vivup Group indicate a growing rift between managers and business leaders, with 60% of managers perceiving a disconnect in priorities. As leaders navigate a challenging economic climate, many managers feel their concerns about employee engagement and welfare are overshadowed by a focus on profitability.
A substantial 66% of British managers believe their leaders prioritise profit over people, while 59% feel abandoned in their responsibilities to support their teams effectively. This leads to a decrease in motivation and engagement, with 58% acknowledging that additional pressures could further diminish their connection with the organisation.
The expectation to perform beyond capacity is a common theme among managers, as 59% report feeling burdened by unrealistic demands from business leaders. There is a perception of not being heard, as only 30% of managers feel their work environment encourages open discussions about their challenges.
Furthermore, 68% of managers believe that business leaders are too detached from daily operations and fail to acknowledge rising stress levels. Over half of the managers surveyed (51%) doubt their feedback is heard or acted upon by leadership.
Perkbox’s research highlights specific areas where support is lacking. Nearly 64% of managers assert that they are expected to offer substantial wellbeing support without adequate resources. Similarly, 66% note a demand for more personalised perks, suggesting a gap in the perceived provision of support.
Despite these challenges, over half of managers (52%) recognise efforts by business leaders to assist them in offering appropriate support to their teams. This sense of effort increases to 60% among managers with access to existing perks and benefits.
Doug Butler, CEO of Perkbox Vivup Group, emphasised the need for alignment in expectations between managers and leaders. He stated, “Those leading businesses need to listen to their managers and seek greater alignment on priorities if they wish to promote engagement, productivity and, importantly, retention across their workforce.”
The findings underscore the importance of bridging the gap between business leaders and managers to enhance organisational alignment and employee engagement.
