Jessica O'ConnorNearly half (49%) of employees said that people that are perceived not to be doing their job properly is the thing that makes them angriest at work, a survey from Acas has revealed.
The YouGov survey, commissioned by workplace expert Acas, asked employees to consider what would make them the most angry while at work.
Over two-fifths (44%) of respondents said it would be others claiming credit for their work, followed by an over-demanding boss (39%) and rude customers or staff (37%).
Stewart Gee, Acas head of individual dispute resolution, said: “It’s clear from our poll that there are a range of issues that make people angry at work.
“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.
“Unresolved emotions over things that seem unfair can have a detrimental effect at work and it is important for workplace conflict to be addressed at the earliest possible opportunity.”
He added: “An informal resolution through an initial chat or mediation can help organisations prevent the cost and stress of more formal procedures, such as an employment tribunal.
“Conflict at work is estimated to cost UK organisations £30bn each year and Acas is holding a special conference next week that will feature expert mediators, trade unions, academics and employers on how we can prevent, handle and resolve conflict at work.
“Getting the basics right plays a key part in helping to reduce conflict at work. Acas offers employers training in performance management and this can be a key ingredient, alongside an effective conflict management strategy, to help prevent conflict at work.”
