The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has responded to the government’s Skills for Sustainable Growth consultation arguing that the UK is suffering from a lack of leadership and management skills which is inhibiting the country’s economic competitiveness.
The CIPD’s response consisted of criticism over the large proportion of public spending on skills which they argue is not having the desired effect as poor management is hindering employees’ motivation and engagement.
Stephanie Bird, the CIPD’s Director of Public Policy and HR Capability, said:
“There is much in the new government’s skills consultation that is to be welcomed. A clear intention to simplify the byzantine skills system, a focus on enhancing the role apprenticeships can play in supporting skills development and job creation.
However, we are concerned that too much spending on skills – by government and employers alike – is being wasted because managers lack the skills to engage, motivate, coach and develop people in the workplace. Effective managers also manage stress, conflict and absence effectively and provide support when employees are facing problems”
In order to remedy this predicament the CIPD has called for the establishment of a pan-government people management skills strategy. This would focus on elevating employee engagement by endorsing best practice on leadership and people management in order to influence employers to invest more effectively in staff management skills.
