In October 2023 a Chartered Management Institute (CMI) study with YouGov highlighted how poor managers harm UK organisations and the economy, while good management is described as a safeguard against negative workplace cultures. In fact one in three workers have quit jobs due to toxic environments, and half of employees with ineffective bosses plan to leave within a year based on the survey results from 4,500 people. As we move into 2026, it would be interesting to reflect on how this has changed over the last couple of years.
At the time shockingly, 82% of managers said they lack formal leadership training, contributing to the rise of ‘Accidental managers.’ Research shows that trained managers are more likely to address poor behaviour, foster loyalty, and drive productivity. Workers with effective managers feel valued (72%) compared to just 15% under ineffective leaders. Strong management correlates with improved employee engagement and a 23% boost in performance.
Despite challenges like stalled productivity and skills shortages in the UK, a lack of investment in Leadership Training, as an unnecessary expense, continues to affect organisations post-covid. My belief after over two decades delivering Leadership and Management Training, is that you can forge a better future by prioritising management training to develop positive cultures, reduce toxic behaviours, retain good staff and enhance overall organisational success and productivity. Please Feel free to read the report on the link below
Graham Price