A recent study by Perkbox Vivup Group has uncovered a significant divide between managers and business leaders because of the focus on profitability.
According to the research, 60 percent of managers feel a growing disconnect with their higher-ups, who are perceived to be more focused on profitability than on employee welfare amidst a challenging economic environment.
The study reveals that 66 percent of managers believe their leaders prioritise profit over people, and 59 percent accuse them of neglecting their responsibility to support team members.
This perception is causing frustration among managers, with nearly three in five (58%) fearing that increased pressure will negatively impact their engagement with the business. Additionally, 59 percent of managers feel they are expected to achieve unrealistic goals.
Lack of Communication and Understanding
A major issue highlighted by the research is the lack of open communication. Only 30 percent of managers feel their workplace encourages discussions about their challenges, which hampers their ability to support their teams effectively. Furthermore, 68 percent believe business leaders are too detached from daily operations, and 51 percent think their feedback is ignored or not acted upon.
Need for Better Support Systems
The findings indicate a significant shortfall in the support provided to managers. Nearly two-thirds (64%) claim they are expected to offer meaningful wellbeing support to their teams without the necessary tools. Similarly, 66 percent say their team members desire greater access to personalized perks and benefits, signalling a gap in perceived support.
Despite these challenges, there is some recognition of efforts made by business leaders. Over half (52%) of managers acknowledge that their leaders are doing their best to help them support their teams. This number rises to 60 percent among managers who already have access to perks and benefits.
Call for Greater Alignment
Doug Butler, CEO of Perkbox Vivup Group, emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between business leaders and managers. “We are seeing a clear disconnect between the expectations of business leaders and the support managers feel is required for their teams to meet business objectives,” he said. “Leaders need to listen to their managers and seek greater alignment on priorities to promote engagement, productivity, and retention across their workforce.”
Butler added, “Managers are critical to connecting company goals with engaged employees who can deliver on those objectives. We must empower them to manage effectively by listening to their challenges and providing them with impactful tools to do their job better.”
The research underscores the need for business leaders to balance profitability with employee welfare to foster a more engaged and productive workforce in today’s tough economic climate.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
