In the challenging world of work, we often talk about stress from deadlines, demanding bosses, or rude customers. But what if the deepest source of frustration stems from within the team itself?
According to a recent YouGov survey commissioned by Acas, nearly half of all employees (a staggering 49%) report that colleagues who are perceived not to be doing their job properly are the primary cause of anger at work. This is a clear signal that the internal dynamics of a team can be just as, if not more, impactful on our job satisfaction than the usual suspects.
The other results include:
- Having too much work to do – 28%
- An over-demanding boss – 39%
- Feeling excluded by others at work – 26%
- Rude customers or staff – 37%
- Not being given training or an induction – 17%
- Others claiming credit for my work – 44%
- Staff that voice opposite opinions to my own – 3%
- None of these – 4%
- Don’t know – 2%
Survey Credit: Acas/YouGov
Why does this matter to your business?
This isn’t just about a bit of workplace grumbling. As Stewart Gee, Acas Head of Individual Dispute Resolution, highlights,
“Anger over a lack of recognition, rudeness, their boss or a colleague seen as not pulling their weight can impact productivity and escalate to conflict if left unresolved at work.”
The cumulative effect of unaddressed poor performance can lead to:
- When good employees feel they’re consistently picking up the slack, motivation plummets.
- Team output suffers when key tasks are missed or poorly executed.
- Frustrations can boil over, leading to disputes and a toxic work environment.
- Your best staff, tired of carrying others, may look for opportunities elsewhere.
Acas further estimates that workplace conflict costs UK organisations a staggering £30 billion each year.
The recruitment agency difference: quality placements
This is where a robust recruitment partner like ours becomes invaluable. We understand that finding staff isn’t just about filling a vacancy; it’s about finding the right fit – individuals who are not only skilled but also bring the right attitude and commitment to their role.
By investing time in understanding both your needs and our candidates’ capabilities and attitudes, we aim to place individuals who will quickly become valuable assets to your team, not a source of frustration. Our goal is to help you build a workforce where every member pulls their weight, contributing to a harmonious and productive environment. Find out more.
