Lack of manager confidence driving escalation of workplace disputes, survey finds

More than half of organisations say their managers lack confidence in handling people issues, contributing to unnecessary escalation and increased legal risk, according to research from WorkNest.

The survey of UK organisations found that 56% reported their managers were ‘not very’ or ‘not at all’ confident dealing with employee relations matters.

Over two-thirds (68%) said issues had escalated due to delays or poor handling, while 43% reported having faced an employment tribunal claim linked to a people issue.

The findings also indicated inconsistent approaches to managing employee relations.

One in three organisations (33%) said people issues are handled informally without a clear process, and 28% said such matters are not always addressed at all.

WorkNest said this reactive approach increases the likelihood that routine workplace concerns develop into formal disputes, placing additional pressure on managers, HR teams and senior leaders.

Becs Bridge, director of learning and development at WorkNest, said: “Our findings suggest that managers are increasingly expected to handle complex and sensitive people issues without the training, confidence or processes to do so effectively.

“When issues are dealt with informally or allowed to drift, they are far more likely to escalate, increasing the risk of formal disputes, legal action and costs.