UK managers pivotal in shaping positive workplace culture, study finds

In a revealing survey conducted by Workhuman on UK employees, managers were found to be pivotal agents of change, shaping company culture and professional development of employees. Rather than merely supervising work, modern managers significantly influence workplace belonging, communication methods, and employee guidance.

Senior management is integral to shaping organisational culture and employee sentiment. Workhuman's study found that 42% of employees identified management as the most influential driver of workplace environment. Furthermore, employees experiencing high levels of belonging attributed their sentiments to proactive support from their managers (60%). Managers act as pillars of company culture, helping cultivate engagement and productivity by nurturing a positive work culture.

Workhuman's research also highlights the behavioural influence managers hold, with 42% of employees observing their managers for cues on workplace interactions. With recognition and appreciation identified as the most important factor for positive culture by 40% of respondents, managers must lead the way through frequent acknowledgements and feedback. Regular, meaningful recognition from managers nurtures a psychologically safe environment, fostering creativity and shared ideas.

On the flip side, the survey points out that the lack of recognition is the main culprit behind a toxic work culture. The interplay of frequent appreciation by managers and a pervasive culture of thankfulness is key to fostering a thriving, positive work setting.

Navigating professional growth, UK workers are more than twice as likely to seek advice from their managers (41%) over peers (16%) or mentors (17%). As managers have a bird's eye view on employee progress and are able to provide personalised feedback, their guidance is highly valued by employees, further deepening the role of managers in employee development.

Workhuman's Senior Director, People Analytics and Research, Dr. Meisha-Ann Martin notes, "Management isn't just about oversight; it's about driving culture and guiding professional journeys." She further recommended, "Managers that engage with their employees on the individual human level, offering regular check-ins and authentic, tailored recognition, will create a positive company culture that attracts and retains the best talent - and ultimately drives long-term business results."

The research for Workhuman's UK Human Workplace Index was undertaken in January 2024 by Pollfish, surveying 1,000 full-time UK workers on various workplace topics.