Personal approach works best

Bosses must do more to ensure their employees stay productive during a period of increasing economic pressure, research has suggested.

Almost 70% of workers expect to experience some form of change to their work environment, the research found - and bosses must take a sensitive approach to implementing these changes, said research sponsors Investors in People.

"Bosses must pay heed to employees’ views on how they’d like to be kept informed in times of change. It's important employers actively manage change in the right way," said Investors in People chief executive Simon Jones.

More than half of workers say they expect to see an increase in workload over the next 12 months, while 14% believe they will work under a new manager, and a further 14% are concerned they will lose their job.

Jones said the best way for employers to break news of change is by adopting the personal approach.

"Employers can make all the difference by delivering news of important changes to their staff via a one to one meeting, by seeking views and listening to feedback, and by offering support, whatever the changes being implemented.

This is vital information for managers who are making tough business decisions and need to ensure they take their people with them to deliver the best results for their employees and organisation," he said.

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008