Do People Really Leave Managers? What Does the Data Say? 

The age-old adage that employees leave managers, not companies, has been a topic of much debate. But what does the data from The People Experience Hub 2024 Insights report tell us about this? 

Should I Stay or Should I Go? 

The report reveals some significant insights into employee engagement and the factors influencing their intention to stay or leave an organisation. 

One of the key findings is the distinction between the influence of company leadership and line management on an employee’s decision to stay. 

While good company leadership has a slightly more significant impact on an employee’s intention to stay, a poor line management experience dramatically increases their likelihood of leaving. 

Intention to Stay vs. Intention to Leave 

When employees intend to stay, they are significantly influenced by the vision and direction set by our company's leadership, providing a sense of stability and confidence.

However, when employees don't intend to stay, line management factors such as respect, support, and constructive feedback become not just important but critical.

This suggests that while employees may be content with overarching company leadership, their day-to-day experience with direct managers can be a factor in their decision to leave.

Recommendations and Wellbeing 

The willingness to recommend the organisation as a great place to work is also influenced by perceptions of company leadership.  

Yet, when employees rate their managers unfavourably, they are less likely to recommend the organisation. 

Again, this highlights the importance of effective line management in creating a positive work environment that employees would advocate for.

Conclusion 

It’s not as simple as leaving a manager or a leader; it’s about the daily interactions, support, and recognition that employees receive. 

While company leadership sets the tone, line managers play a crucial role in the day-to-day satisfaction and engagement of employees, which can ultimately influence their decision to stay or go. 

People Experience Insights Report 2024 

You can find out more about this and explore the details behind these stats in our report here