Report into value of communication to staff

Recruitment firm Reed have published a report showing that more employees value good communications skills in their managers than value strong leadership qualities.

Conducted among more than 2,500 UK workers, the survey saw 21% feeling communication was the most important factor when describing their ideal manager. This compared to 19% who felt strong leadership was the most valuable trait and 14% stating fairness.

The poll also asked participants to name their ideal manager from a given list of celebrities. Barack Obama and Richard Branson topped the list – Obama for his calmness under pressure and communication skills – and Branson for his encouraging nature.

Reed group managing director Tom Lovell said: “There are some overarching qualities that all of the best leaders will have. But there are some things like a sense of humour and compassion that will come easier to some than others. Different managers will have different strengths in this area. I think you’d be hard pushed to find someone who will have every single skill mentioned.”

If you’d like information on any aspect of employment law including having clear policies please contact Vaishali Thakerar at employment law specialists Lawson-West on 0116 212 1000.

View all