“People leave managers, not companies.”
Context
Marcus Buckingham, the researcher and author known for his work on leadership and strengths-based management at consulting and polling firm Gallup, made this widely quoted observation while analysing the root causes of employee turnover. His research found that workers rarely resign purely because of organisational factors. Instead, the decisive break often comes from day-to-day interactions with their line manager, and the environment those managers create.
The framing has become a touchstone within HR and organisational psychology. Two decades after Buckingham first articulated it, the line continues to be cited by practitioners, academics and business leaders because it encapsulates a persistent truth about how people experience work.
Meaning
Buckingham’s message is a reminder that retention is deeply relational. Policies, perks and employer branding can only go so far if the direct manager creates an atmosphere of stress, exclusion or inconsistency. Conversely, even in organisations undergoing pressures or budget constraints, supportive managers can maintain trust and loyalty.
The quote also reflects a change in how the workplace is understood. Instead of seeing turnover as primarily a structural or generational issue, it positions leadership capability and day-to-day behaviour as central determinants of whether people stay or go. It reinforces the idea that HR strategy must extend beyond frameworks and into lived experience.
Implications
The line shows the need to elevate management capability as a strategic priority. That means investing in training that focuses on emotional intelligence, communication and conflict resolution and ensuring managers have the confidence and competence to lead diverse teams. It also means giving managers the time and tools to manage properly, rather than placing them in overloaded roles without support.
Performance systems may need rethinking too. Organisations increasingly recognise that manager performance cannot be judged on output alone. Their impact on wellbeing, inclusion, engagement and turnover should form part of how success is measured.
Finally, the quote serves as a warning. If people are leaving quietly or suddenly, the issue may not be pay, policy or culture in the abstract. It may be something more immediate and fixable, sitting one level up in the reporting line. Addressing that early can prevent wider disengagement and reputational risk.
