What's Happening?
A recent report by the American Management Association (AMA) reveals a significant disconnect between managers and employees regarding leadership engagement and effectiveness. According to the report, 59% of managers believe their engagement has increased
over the past year, while 80% of employees feel their managers' engagement has either stagnated or declined. This disparity highlights a critical challenge for organizations, as noted by Manny Avramidis, president and CEO of AMA. The report suggests that closing this perception gap requires improved communication, stronger coaching, and more intentional collaboration. The survey, which included over 1,300 workers worldwide, found that both managers and employees identified managing higher workloads, navigating change, and collaborating across the organization as pressing demands. However, while managers prioritized achieving departmental goals, employees valued communication the most.
Why It's Important?
The disconnect between managers and employees on engagement and effectiveness has significant implications for organizational productivity and employee satisfaction. Manager burnout, exacerbated by heavy workloads and frequent meetings, can negatively impact business success. The report indicates that recent reductions in middle management have strained productivity and communication, leaving employees feeling unsupported and lacking mentorship opportunities. This situation is particularly concerning for Generation Z workers, who prioritize collaboration more than older generations. The findings suggest that organizations need to focus on upskilling managers in communication, coaching, and collaboration to build trust, reduce employee stress, and lead effectively through change. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a collaborative culture and ensuring organizational success.
What's Next?
Organizations are likely to focus on bridging the gap between managers and employees by enhancing communication and collaboration strategies. Upskilling managers in key areas such as communication and coaching will be essential to address employee concerns and improve engagement. As expectations for managers continue to intensify, companies may also explore restructuring management roles to better support employees and improve accessibility. The emphasis on creating a collaborative culture will be critical in defining organizational success in the future.
