Half of UK staff think employers don't realise their potential

New research has revealed that half of the UK's workforce feel their employer does not understand them.

The study by Automatic Data Processing (ADP) questioned more than 2,000 workers across Europe. The findings revealed that 50% of UK workers feel their bosses don't understand them or their potential – a figure above the European average of 46%.

The study confirmed the gap between UK employees and their employers runs deeper still, with 40% of UK workers not happy with the quality of leadership.

According to the survey, French employees feel most misunderstood (52%), while workers in the Netherlands feel the most positive (35%).

Relationships between employees and managers fared better, with 61% of those questioned agreeing their managers knew them, supported them and wanted them to succeed. This suggests that closer working relationships are more beneficial and can lead to greater productivity and a better quality of work.

The study also looked at what helped employees stay happy and engaged in the workplace. For UK workers, salary is the main motivator, however 38% said personal development, job satisfaction and workplace relationships play a role in making them want to stay in a role.

Meanwhile, 41% of UK employees think about quitting at least every few months – far higher than the European average of 28%. Employers need to ensure a lack of motivation does not turn into total disengagement.

Speaking about the findings, Jeff Phipps, ADP UK's managing director stated: "This research points to a worrying issue: British bosses do not truly understand their people and what they could offer businesses. If employees don't feel valued and understood, they are far less likely to be engaged in their role and productive in their work."

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