The survey says…….
Almost nine out of 10 employees in travel and tourism respect their managers and two-thirds claim their bosses take an interest in further developing their careers, putting them way ahead of the national average.
These were the findings of a management survey commissioned by The People 1st Training Company and ICM.
Whilst the findings highlight the impact poor management and communication skills is generally having on Britain’s economy – high staff turnover, low retention, poor customer service and reduced productivity – the travel and tourism sector bucked the trend with more employees content with their lot.
Nearly one in three (27%) workers lacked respect for their managers, saying that their supervisors failed to provide clear instructions, whilst 26% complained that their superiors talk down to them.
“Inevitably, the way that people feel about their business influences the way in which they engage and interact with customers,” said director of The People 1st Training Company Sharon Glancy.
“There is strong evidence to suggest that effective employee engagement improves job satisfaction, organisational commitment and empowerment and has a positive impact on business performance.
"It’s critical that companies fully appreciate the impact poor management and communication skills can have on their business, particularly in the run-up to the Olympic Games and other high-profile events."
Director general at The Institute of Directors Miles Templeman added: “Old authoritarian styles of management are fast becoming obsolete as the findings highlight.
"Employees expect to be recognised and respected for the contribution they make to their organisation and expect far more from their leaders and managers, particularly during these turbulent economic times.
"Those who succeed very often appreciate the value of their staff and are able to inspire a self-generating machine that takes ownership for their part in driving forward the business by providing an exceptional customer experience.”
By Linsey McNeill
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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