Results highlight challenges for succession planning
Most employees in Quebec aren't envious of their superiors, according to a survey by Quebec's HR association.
In fact, 53 per cent of respondents to the Ordre des conseillers en ressources humaines agréés survey said they wouldn't trade places with their boss if given the opportunity.
Only 27 per cent of the 1,173 respondents said they wouldn't hesitate to trade places with their boss, while 19 per cent would do so after some hesitation.
There were gender differences, with women more likely to turn down the boss's job than men (62 per cent compared to 46 per cent).
"These findings sound the alarm for managers. Succession problems are tricky and often neglected in many organizations. Management needs to come up with sound strategies to prepare the next generation. This is a crucial issue for organizations' survival and their future," said Florent Francoeur, president and CEO of the Ordre.
Workers put off by long hours
Long work hours seem to be an obstacle when Quebec employees are offered an opportunity to climb the corporate ladder, found the survey. Some 42 per cent gave this as the main reason they would refuse a promotion, followed by a heavier workload (14 per cent) and having to manage a team or human resources (13 per cent).
"Obviously, not every employee is interested in or has the ability to hold a management position. But the survey shows that it's time for some companies to change their culture of long work hours. Employees don't necessarily perform better just because they spend more time at the office. Performance is measured by outcomes," said Francoeur.
