Blame the Manager: Poor Performers Lack Supervision

Getting the Most of People: New evidence is emerging that underscores the value of highly trained workers. Across the globe, companies face a common impediment as they strive to maintain adequate productivity. Poor supervision by managers is the leading contributor to workers’ poor productivity, according to an annual study conducted by Proudfoot Consulting of London. According to the research, U.S. workers waste the equivalent of 70 days a year, resulting in a combined economic loss of about $658 billion. In France, workers squander about 73 days a year in unproductive activities, while those in Germany fritter about 55 days.

Interestingly, Proudfoot researchers say France and the U.S are among the top three countries where labor productivity is highest, along with Australia. Canada ranks lowest on the list, with Spain and Great Britain rounding out the bottom three.