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Study unveils manager-worker divide

Study unveils manager-worker divide
26 May 2011



Managers in the public sector have “far more” skills confidence than their staff, research shows.

Many public sector workers believe they will have to improve their skills to find a job in a private company, according to recruitment firm Badenoch & Clark.

But the research also found that most public sector workers were not looking for a new job despite the cuts in public spending that have hit local authorities.

Most NHS and council workers said they would wait for any further developments before making career change decisions.

Managers in the public sector have “far more” skills confidence than their staff, research shows.

Many public sector workers believe they will have to improve their skills to find a job in a private company, according to recruitment firm Badenoch & Clark.

But the research also found that most public sector workers were not looking for a new job despite the cuts in public spending that have hit local authorities.

Most NHS and council workers said they would wait for any further developments before making career change decisions.

Nicola Linkleter, Managing Director of Badenoch & Clark, said: “There appears to be a worker/manager divide in skills confidence within the public sector, as public sector managers have emerged with far more confidence.

“The process of cuts and the re-evaluation of workplace priorities, which the public sector has undergone over the last six months, have resulted in the development of a specific set of important management skills. Such skills leave managers adept at coping with a more dynamic, stretched and fast-paced working environment.

“Workers must now see the cuts as a possibility for the development of crucial time and people management skills, coupled with an understanding of the vital importance of clear communication in times of crisis.”

Copyright © Press Association 2011

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