Communication breakdown at the top

New research from Ashridge Business School highlights organisations' failure to provide effective virtual working practices, leadership development and internal communications

Organisations are falling short on key personnel issues, suggests new research published by Ashridge Business School.

The 2010 edition of the Ashridge Management Index: Meeting the Challenges of the 21st Century indicates that while most managers (71%) describe a positive leadership environment within their organisations, only 41% of those surveyed believe leaders in their organisation are developed to lead change well, and just over half state that they feel leaders in their organisation have the necessary skills to lead change.

The report also highlights that 83% of respondents are managing or working in cross-functional and virtual teams. This shift in the way that teams are put together is becoming more commonplace. Although, fewer than half of those surveyed felt that their organisation provides sufficient support for virtual working. For those working in the public sector this figure is just 33%.

Additionally, just over half of those surveyed say that top leaders in their organisation do not spend sufficient time communicating with staff. In spite of the fact that business is aware of the importance of communication, this figure has not changed since 2004.

One of the major findings to come out of the 2008 survey was the discrepancy between the motivating factors cited by organisations compared to those named by individual managers. This year's findings indicate a greater alignment but HR professionals need to have a clear understanding of what recognition and rewards motivate different individuals and teams within their organisation.


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