New Spherion Study Finds Recession Has Eroded Workers' Relationships with Their Boss

(From PRNewswire) -- A surprising aftershock from the economic recession is emerging this bosses day, with nearly half (45 percent) of U.S. workers indicating their relationship with their boss has been affected by the recession, according to the most recent Spherion Staffing Services Snapshot survey. Furthermore, of those who say their relationship with their boss has been affected, 74 percent of these workers say the recession has weakened their relationship with their boss negatively.

The 2010 Boss Day Survey conducted by Monster on behalf of Spherion Staffing, also found that more than one-third of workers (34 percent) say they are somewhat or very dissatisfied with their relationship with their boss.

Not only are many bosses falling short in supporting their employees' career development, in many cases they are hindering their progress. The study found that 38 percent of workers indicated their boss is somewhat or very uncaring when it comes to their career development, with 27 percent saying that their boss's attitude about their career development has changed since the recession.

More alarming, nearly half of workers (45 percent) say their boss has taken credit for their work, and another 37 percent say their boss has "thrown them under the bus" to save himself/herself.

Many workers believe their bosses have not been entirely honest and forthright about job security, and in many cases feel little respect from their manager. According to the study, one out of four workers feels their boss is somewhat or very dishonest about their job security, and more than half (53 percent) feels their boss doesn't respect them as a professional equal.

And, many employees lack confidence in discussing sensitive or unethical issues with their managers. The study found 46 percent of workers say they don't think they can freely and openly discuss unethical workplace issues with their boss, and 44 percent say they can't confide about sensitive or confidential workplace issues.

"At a time when workers arguably need added support and guidance to offset the uncertainties that come with a shaky economy, many bosses simply aren't stepping up to the plate," says Loretta Penn, President, Spherion Staffing Services. "Managers need to create an environment that fosters open and direct communication, offers unwavering support for workers, and demonstrates commitment to career development. Unfortunately, many of today's bosses simply aren't delivering on this responsibility."