New research from the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) reveals that 60% of UK managers did not choose to go into management, while one in four question their own capabilities.
Many of the ‘reluctant’ managers also said they feel stressed and lack confidence in their own abilities.
At a time when leadership and management skills are more critical than ever, ILM chief executive Penny de Valk is concerned at reports that some employers are looking to cut management development budgets.
De Valk said: “Strong leadership and competent managers are vital if businesses are to survive the turbulent times ahead. A whole generation of managers in the UK are working in unprecedented circumstances.
“With the majority of managers not having made an active decision to move into management, and many feeling less than confident in their own ability, there is a real business need to provide them with extra support and development at this critical time. Securing strong people skills through management development is the single most cost-effective investment an organisation can make to improve the performance and efficiency of its staff.”
Over 1,000 managers were surveyed for an ILM research project into what it means to be a leader and manager of people in the UK in 2008. Almost two thirds of those polled revealed they were reluctant managers – progressing into the role for more money or because it happened to be the next rung on the career ladder, rather than a desire to manage – while 27% said they were unsure of their ability to manage others.
The Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) is Europe’s leading management organisation.
Visit the Fuse Learning website at: www.fuselearning.co.uk
You must log in to post a comment.