Senior executives struggle to juggle as priorities compete for attention
1 min read
Research, published by the Chartered Management Institute, reveals that the UK’s managers and leaders are highly motivated, but worry that the challenges they face will affect their ability to perform.
Senior executives across the UK admit they are struggling to manage conflicting priorities, as demand for their attention is split between strategic planning, stakeholder management and personal needs.
The research, of 1,175 managers and directors, shows that an overwhelming majority (84%) grapple with the challenge of ‘prioritising work’. Two-thirds (63%) claim to have ‘little time to think’ and 53% also say they struggle to find ‘time for strategic planning’. Only 5 in 10 find it easy to make time for their staff, while a similar proportion (44%) are diverted by internal politics.
Worryingly, the research also shows that respondents find it hard to manage personal needs. 51% find their own administration a challenge, 54% often find it hard to get home on time and only 1 in 10 strongly agree they can relax in their free time.
The research also shows managers are worried that such narrow approaches will affect performance. However the survey shows that the UK’s managers are determined to succeed. 83% can’t wait to ‘get up in the morning’ and 75% claim they find it easy to ‘keep positive’. There is also a clear indication of camaraderie, with 76 % turning to colleagues for support.
Jo Causon, director of marketing and corporate affairs for the Chartered Management Institute, says: “In the current climate, prioritising a multitude of responsibilities and tasks at work is a real challenge for managers. Organisations need to provide a supportive and open environment so individuals can dedicate time to developing fresh ideas for the future of the business. The lack of professional training and development is also a concern. If UK employers fail to invest in the skills and competencies of individuals, there will be a serious impact on how well the UK performs on a global market in the future.”
Reacting to the findings, the Chartered Management Institute has created a freely downloadable resource to help individuals juggle priorities and manage more effectively. A series of management checklists, diagnostic tools and general advice is available via a specially created website.
