By Sue Hutchinson

The main message from this report from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development is that line managers need to be recognised as strategic partners of Human Resource professionals.

The role of line managers is becoming increasingly important in influencing employee engagement in the workplace. New research commissioned by the Institute shows that there is confusion as to the role of line managers. The report focuses on how learning and development specialists and reward professionals can provide them with the support to develop the skills necessary to carry out their roles.

The report also highlights concerns about the effectiveness of line managers. Common issues raised amongst the organisations interviewed was the lack of training for line managers, competing operational pressures and a need to align learning, development and reward objectives with the wider organisational strategy. There is disappointment that only a small number of organisations saw the importance of front-line managers in translating people management and development policies into practice.

The report highlights the link between employees feeling supported by their line manager and improved attendance, reduced staff turnover and a willingness to ‘go that extra mile’. Developing this support requires that line managers are recognised as the strategic partners of HR and given the recognition for their responsibilities. Failure to do this will result in a continuing lack of accountability to people management.

The report, priced at 49.99 pounds is available from the CIPD. http://www.cipd.co.uk/bookstore