Wolters Kluwer -- CCH® HR MANAGEMENT -- 03/30/10 -- Thirty-seven percent of workers never engage in career discussions with their managers, according to a survey of nearly 700 employees by Right Management. Moreover, a further 30 percent have such a discussion just once a year. Right Management is the talent and career management expert within Manpower.
Individuals across North America were asked: "How often do you engage in career discussions with your manager?" Among their responses, 37.34 percent said "Never;" 30.01 percent said "Once a year;" 17.42 percent said "Twice a year;" and 15.23 percent said "Every three months."
Conversations on careers and development are frequently a low priority, observed Melvin Scales, senior vice president of Global Solutions for Right Management. "With so many competing pressures and responsibilities, as well as constant change due to market realities, career management can end up on the back burner for both managers and individuals," he said.
"While managers might express the importance of employees managing their own careers, the research shows that this concept is unsupported by real action," Scales continued. "Individuals need to take responsibility for managing their own career. Unfortunately, many are not equipped with the information or opportunity to have meaningful career discussions with their managers."
According to Scales, managers have a key role to play in reaching out to employees. "Career planning can be a great first step in getting employees more broadly engaged. But managers need to be equipped with the tools to discuss career opportunities and create an environment where employees feel valued and want to grow in their roles. If successful, the outcome will be greater job satisfaction, commitment, and even advocacy - all essential for a healthy bottom line."
Source: Right Management; www.right.com.
