32,000 managers where asked, “What is holding us back from excellence?”.  Here is a synopsis of the top six answers in order:

• Lack of trust in senior management.  The moves that management makes are viewed with suspicion, “What is their motive?”,  "I can’t tell my boss the truth."

• Poor communication.  Management does not trust the employee with full disclosure of information when it makes sense to do so.  Managers watch out for their fiefdom and not the policyholder.

• I can’t use my own best judgment.  I’m not trusted to make the call.  I can make the decision as long as I’m always right.

• Politics and turf battles.  Due to so much change, managers are concerned for their jobs.  Decisions are made accordingly.

• Patience.  At this rate of change, expectations for earnings at reduced cost means demand for more speed. 

• Little intrinsic motivation, lots of extrinsic motivation.  I hear about it when it goes wrong but not when it goes right.  I’m tired of the carrot and stick and could use some compassion and recognition.