LinkedIn Top Voice, New York Times Bestselling Author, Managing Partner of Workplace Intelligence, Led 80+ Workplace Research Studies
34% of employees never want to become managers, 39% don’t want to ever be promoted, and 51% are content with no advancement opportunities because they enjoy their current role, reports a new study. Many employees are increasingly reluctant to pursue managerial roles or promotions due to a complex interplay of factors. The additional responsibilities often come with heightened stress, longer working hours, and a precarious work-life balance, which can be unappealing to those prioritizing personal well-being and family time. There's also a growing recognition that leadership positions may not align with everyone's strengths or passions, as some individuals prefer to excel in their specialized roles rather than navigate the challenges of managing teams. The perception of increased political maneuvering and bureaucracy at higher levels can be off-putting, as can the potential loss of hands-on work that many find fulfilling.
Such an intricate issue. Also worth to note the need to offer new forms of growth and self-leadership development support. I suspect just because you are content in your position, it doesn’t follow that you aren’t looking to grow yourself within that role.
There are a couple of things that are so interesting about this 1) personal values are shifting towards prioritizing well-being and 2) people are catching on to how hard it is to manage people. People managers need more support! Especially as the world of work continues to rapidly evolve and they need to expand their skill set.
Absolutely!! Particularly when it comes to people management - not everyone wants to do it and is skilled at it. This is why promoting people into such positions needs to be carefully planned and executed (with supports that will set them up for success)!
It’s a reminder that career satisfaction doesn’t always mean climbing the ladder but rather finding joy and balance in the work we do.
The study's findings reflect a shift in employee preferences towards valuing work-life balance and job satisfaction over traditional advancement opportunities.
Dan, this definitely opens up a wider conversation for organizations when asking employees about their 5-year goals! Not everyone wants to take on managerial or leadership roles and that’s okay! It doesn't mean they're not engaged, it just means those roles don't fit their needs and skills. Most employees want to maintain balance. It's reassuring to see that well-being is becoming a priority worldwide.
Valuing personal well-being and fulfillment in the current role is key for many employees. 🌟
Nothing in life is harder than people
Great post! It is more beneficial to promote our well-being instead.
leading, mentoring, teaching, and guiding
4moGood post. It's critical for leaders (and managers, however you want to use it in the context) to get the well-being and support needed to be a role model for higher position. I've seen many shy away from higher roles out of fear created by looking at what those in the roles go through and not wanting the same.