Work-life balance, bad managers and people management driving workplace attrition: Gartner

A poor work-life balance, low-quality managers and poor people management are the top drivers in workplace attrition in Australia, according to a new Gartner survey.

Gartner’s latest Global Talent Monitor survey data, collected between January and March 2023, is reflective of a workforce that has become exhausted and unproductive. 

According to Gartner, Workers are seeking great leaders that demonstrate empathetic leadership traits.

The data showed in terms of reasons why people leave their jobs that manager quality held strong this quarter.

This was followed by people management and work-life balance, which made a reappearance back into the top three in the first quarter of 2023. Future career opportunities rose two places, demonstrating that employees are not afraid to leave their current roles.

Aaron McEwan, VP at the Gartner HR practice explained with rising inflation showing no signs of slowing, many Australians are facing serious financial hardship, which is not only incredibly distressing personally, but significantly impacts their work life too.

“As wages remain stagnant and few bonuses on offer, organisations risk losing employees as they prioritise household budget needs,” he said.

As the ‘new normal’ for hybrid working arrangements is settling, many organisations are starting to lure staff back into the office for collaboration and innovation. However, by doing so, organisations are placing additional financial strain on employees that are already struggling.

McEwan said work-life balance remains a driving force when employees are deciding whether to stay in their current role or move on.

"Employers pushing workers into the office should provide a clear rationale and consider funding social gatherings as an unnecessary commute just adds further financial stress to those finding it tough," he explained. 

To try and create a better culture, McEwan said employees have faced a considerable amount of personal and financial turbulence in the past six months and they’re calling on their leaders to show genuine care, respect and concern.

“Organisations can help alleviate this stress by extending employee programs that support them, such as financial planning services that offer access to financial advice, or the option to stay at home to save on commuting costs,” he said.

McEwan said in the current economic environment, it’s risky for employees to jump ship as it’s usually ‘last one in, first one out’.

“However, if they’re struggling financially and are faced with a poor manager, it's possible they will take a chance,” he ended.