Workplace relationships in the UK appear to have plumbed new depths, with large numbers of employees complaining about everything from abuse of power to nepotism and bullying.
According to a survey conducted among 1,607 people by Canada Life Group Insurance, a huge 42% said that they had witnessed senior staff members abusing their power.
Just over half believed that some colleagues got away with doing less work as a result of their friendships with others, while 36% had seen people receiving praise and recognition despite not doing as much as they could.
To make matters worse, a quarter felt that they were badly treated because they were different or did not fit in. One in 10 had taken time off sick to avoid being bullied, while about the same number had done so as a result of being treated unfairly by a line manager.
Paul Avis, Canada Life’s sales and marketing director, said: “Cooperation and teamwork are crucial to the success of any business. Employers must ensure that they encourage employees to work together – not only to ensure their happiness and welfare, but also to facilitate a productive working environment.”
Nonetheless, a mere 27% of those questioned said that they would talk to a colleague if they saw them outside of work, while a huge 88% said they would deliberately avoid saying hello if they bumped into them on holiday.
Only a quarter classed colleagues as personal friends and a mere 6% said that they really enjoyed socialising with them.
