While power dynamics in the workplace are naturally going to result in tension now and again, the truth is, the majority of bosses are perceived as being fair by their employees. According to a recent study published by Pew Research Center, 55% of American workers “said their manager or supervisor is excellent or very good for which to work.” 

In this issue of the Pulse, we’re looking at the findings of this study. 

How do workers see their bosses? 

Pew’s study collected responses from 2,657 employed U.S. adults who have a manager or supervisor at work. The results shined a positive light on how this subset of the population feels about their superiors. As it turns out, most respondents would describe their bosses as: 

• Capable (69%) 
• Confident (66%) 
• Fair (58%) 

Most workers also praised their bosses for: 

• Giving employees flexibility to balance work and their personal life (63%) 
• Giving employees credit when it’s due (56%) 
• Staying calm under pressure (56%) 
• Setting high standards (53%) 
• Being open to new ideas (52%) 
• Being clear about expectations (50%) 

Fewer than 20% would label their bosses as dismissive, unpredictable, aggressive, or arrogant. 

Why is this important? 

A bad boss can do a lot to increase employee turnover rates. Qualified talent is in demand, and many workers won’t tolerate operating under a boss who doesn’t meet the criteria above. Moreover, turnover can cost companies an average of $15,000 USD per employee. Employees quitting over bad management is something every business should strive to avoid.   

In conclusion… 

Bad bosses aren’t in the majority. At least most American workers don’t seem to think so. Which goes to say, if you are experiencing working under a bad boss, that doesn’t have to be the way things are.