Fewer than half of employees ‘inspired by workplace boss’

A survey of 500 UK employees found that just 49 per cent felt their leaders offered a genuine sense of purpose or optimism at work – revealing a growing disconnect between organisational ambition and everyday experience.

The study, by Oxfordshire-based executive coaching business Claire Croft Associates and conducted by Cherry Data Signals, revealed that only 12.5 per cent of respondents felt strongly inspired by their leaders.

Claire Croft, founder of Claire Croft Associates, said: “Inspiration and trust sit at the heart of strong leadership, but too many employees are feeling disconnected from the people leading them.

“When leaders don’t create a clear sense of purpose or confidence in the future, it becomes much harder for people to stay engaged, motivated, and invested in their work.

“Businesses are facing enormous change right now, from AI and workforce transformation to wider economic and political uncertainty, and that puts even greater pressure on leaders to communicate clearly, build trust and bring people with them.”

The research also exposed a gap between strategic understanding and faith in leadership.

Nearly one in four respondents felt their leaders lacked the ability to manage disruptions such as AI adoption, market volatility, and workforce change.

Psychological safety remains a concern, with 25 per cent saying they do not feel comfortable speaking up at work.

This figure was even higher among younger and entry-level workers.

Claire Croft Associates supports senior leaders across the UK in developing the human skills that shape organisational success.