Commentary
Although sometimes suspect as subtle promotions for consulting groups, articles like this and the data they share are worth considering. The pandemic upset the proverbial apple cart and increased the need for excellent juggling skills at all levels of the animal health business, regardless of staff size and sophistication. A declining number of middle managers did most of the juggling as technology had already promised a respite from many of the traditional chores, including managing customer and employee experiences.
Likely not a pandemic-only consequence, operating lean businesses creates a softer middle between leadership and tactical workers . . . the managers.”
Jan Bruce shares research from her organization, meQuilibrium, indicates a deep manager shortage is ahead. The next generation sees the toll on current managers and seems reluctant to accept manager roles. It may also be related to lower core capabilities such as emotion control, stress management, engagement and positivity.
Source: Fast Company, February 5, 2025. Link. Bruce shares:
- Employees who don’t feel supported by their managers are more than four times as likely to quit their jobs and twice as likely to report poor overall well-being.
- Employees who feel strongly supported are more protected from psychosocial risks at work, such as mistrust, conflict, and excessive work pace and much more likely to feel like the pace of work moves at a sustainable rate in which they can complete their tasks.
- Organizations need to train their young employees in the essential skills they lack.