Managers need greater learning and development opportunities to keep their motivation levels high, according to the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

According to the CMI and Adecco Business Eneregy Survey of 1,500 managers, one third had received no training in the past 12 months, despite the fact that many knew a training budget existed.

Respondents also wanted better two-way communications, to be trusted and empowered, treated with fairness, dignity and respect.

Drawing on the survey, the CMI came up with a list of recommendations to help employers increase staff motivation levels.

Christine Hayhurst, director of professional affairs explained the reasoning behind the recommendations.

“Energy levels can be an indication of commitment and a powerful driver of successful growth,” she said. “So unless staff are motivated to perform and given the opportunity to develop there is a danger that organisations and their people will stagnate.”

The CMI’s recommendations include:

* Resource planning – one in three said they had received no training in the last 12 months despite 53% of managers knew a training budget existed. Companies need to develop their managers and also provide the resources needed to carry out their job

* Proactive not reactive – 65% of managers claimed they worked for a bureaucratic or reactive organisation. UK organisations need to involve staff in decision making.

* Praise not pay – 57% of those surveyed claimed to be energised by achieving their goals but most don’t see recognition for their efforts. Organisations need to thank individuals for personal contributions and realise that, often, praise matters more than pay.

* Flexible working – 39% of those surveyed stated they would like a compressed working week, but less than 6% cent expect it to happen. Organisations should respond to the need to juggle commitments to make staff feel valued.

* Make the message heard – CEOs need to express a clear vision and communicate it effectively to all levels of staff. 51% claimed directors do not communicate their message clearly to employees.

* Zero tolerance – The survey highlighted that 50% of businesses tolerated poor performance. Corporate confidence and energy filters through to individuals, so leaders need to be inspirational and encourage creativity to generate business growth