Managers and employees, still on the same wavelength at the beginning of the school year?

Are managers and their employees approaching the start of the new school year with optimism? After the last year marked by the pandemic and a highly disrupted operation, the time is for recovery. A recovery that coincides with the month of September, marking the return of companies. A study has shed light on the state of mind in which managers and employees find themselves. The situation may have been delicate for companies, but surprisingly, for them, optimism remains essential. However, the pandemic period has changed many factors for each profile. Whether from the point of view of management, or working methods, the start of the school year will be the period of change.

Leaders optimistic about the recovery

It has been a difficult year, even a very difficult one for the leaders. Not knowing when the crisis will end, but above all adapting quickly to a totally new situation… But also and above all make the right decisions to ensure the continuity of its activity, and the survival of the company. Still, the dominant mindset remains optimistic and confident. Only a minority felt isolated, and felt a risk to their business.

However, overall, the situation had the opposite effect, and brought benefits for business continuity. This evolution linked to the crisis has thus developed opportunities, evolutions in the management of the company. This is the observation of 54% of managers, or more than half. This allows you to see the good sides of the situation, and to learn to better anticipate the future.

Thus, 63% think they have progressed as a leader vis-à-vis their company. Making more reasoned decisions for the well-being of all is therefore a priority. But also to organize in the professional world of tomorrow, by dealing with covid-19. 88% believe they have gained in agility,to better adapt to all situations. This ability to adapt then allows them to better prepare for any evolution of their activity.

76% believe that the crisis has allowed them to get to know each other better. The opportunity to question oneself to move forward, and this is felt globally. 87% are then in a positive and optimistic state of mind, ready to face this crucial year. The objective is clear: to maintain the activity, but by putting at the heart of the company’s strategy the well-being of employees. Fostering collective intelligence is a priority for 82% of HR and managers. They also need more support and advice to move forward.

Resumption of work collaborators team
Leaders seek the well-being of their employees above all else.

Employees facing their employer’s need for recognition

Employees are also in a rather positive state of mind. They have the morale for this return to work,but expect a gesture from their leader. Indeed, they hope for example a salary increase, or greater recognition from their superior. Indeed, employees have also suffered the pandemic, although differently from managers. In small structures, employees produce more effort, more work, on site or from home.

Despite the unprecedented context, employees remain positive. 61% even intend to stay within their current structure. 71% are aware of the situation, and believe that the manager has managed his business well during the crisis… However, 47% think that the manager has above all made choices to save his financial interests, before taking care of his employees. This is why they are looking for more recognition, with 49% waiting for a salary increase… Or 34% who want to feel valued by their boss.

These situations echo the significant change in management methods with the pandemic. Indeed, the leaders had to adapt quickly, by setting up teleworking when possible. After months of working in these unprecedented conditions, it is now necessary to resume a more traditional rhythm. This return to work, generally well received, still leaves some questions about the operating methods. Will managers adjust schedules, a more flexible mode of operation to meet everyone’s needs?

Sources:

Crisis lessons, priority issues: are managers and employees (still) on the same wavelength? Study conducted by Grant Alexander published on September 13, 2021

RPS: The back-to-school challenge: revitalizing exhausted teams! – The counter of the company

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