News and features

Mon, 10 Jan 2011

Managers 'need to listen to staff during economic downturn'

Managers in the UK have been warned against becoming complacent about communicating with employees.

A recent study by Krauthammer found that commitment among workers is currently at a "worrying low" across Europe, reports Training Journal.

It said that for many members of staff, job satisfaction is currently in a "fragile" condition.

Some 27 per cent of the respondents to the survey claimed that their commitment to staying with their current employer is low, while only four out of ten said they were very dedicated to their firm.

Ronald Meijers, co-chairman of Krauthammer's board of executives, commented: "Senior managers especially should beware of paying lip service to crucial behaviours such as listening to their staff, while dismissing them as 'too basic' or by assuming an air of 'I left all that behind me when I was a junior'."

He asserted that "sophistication" in management comes from a firm grasp of the basic principles, such as listening to employees.

His assertions were supported by Steffi Gande, co-head of the firm's research department, who said managers should be wary of relying on talent staying put during the economic downturn.

She said that if workers are not managed properly, there is a strong possibility that they will leave.

Earlier this week, Asda released figures showing that its staff retention rates are currently at an all-time high.

It told Personnel Today that providing opportunities for development and progression was key to the large number of employees opting to stay with the company.

Explore learndirect Business courses and qualifications accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management.