Bosses cast adrift by their firms

Jul 19 2007 by The Journal

MORE than half of managers rate being promoted as very or extremely challenging – and almost as stressful as divorce.

According to the latest research from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and Development Dimensions International (DDI), office politics is one of the main challenges facing these leaders.

Almost half of top-level leaders say they feel unable to address the problem in their organisation and about a quarter say it’s the toughest challenge to overcome.

CIPD organisation and resourcing adviser Vanessa Robinson said: “Leaders should encourage frequent, consistent and clear communications to eliminate any ambiguity, uncertainty and politics. Otherwise senior teams risk being riven by disagreement and shifting alliances, and operating in a way which rewards political manipulation.

“A leader does not operate in isolation. Support from colleagues and the organisation are essential if a leader is to be successful. Our research shows that coaches and external advisers play the most significant role in leadership transitions, with 43% of senior level leaders citing their contribution.

“We wouldn’t expect people to take on an unfamiliar technical role without the appropriate training and support. Yet all too often we’re happy to let people loose on important leadership roles without helping them to develop the necessary skills.

“Providing training and equipping leaders with the right resources and development tools are essential. Leaders need to understand that their new role requires different ways of thinking and a ‘mental shift’.”

DDI director Simon Mitchell said: “The research demonstrates that leaders need much more than congratulations and a pat on the shoulder if they are to succeed and thrive. Organisations need leaders that make a difference.

“People are promoted in order to succeed, not to fail, but it seems that many leaders that succeed do so despite a lack of effective support from their companies.”