Employee-manager relationships might be the key to job satisfaction, after all

Have you been struggling to find satisfaction and happiness in your workplace? The answer to your little dilemma might be staring right at you — or could be standing behind you, breathing down your neck. It’s your manager.

The manager isn’t usually the most popular person in the workplace. If all those Hallmark movies have taught us anything, it’s that the frustrated protagonist always end up dramatically quitting their job because of a bad rapport with their boss.

A recent research from Swedish universities delved into the impact of workplace relationships on employee well-being and basically validated these feelings. The findings were clear: the quality of the manager-employee relationship significantly influences how we feel about our jobs — more so than our bonds with our work buddies.

Why is the manager-employee relationship so important?

• Recognition and support: A supportive manager who appreciates our hard work can boost our motivation and self-esteem.
• Influence and autonomy: A manager who trusts and empowers us can give us a sense of control over our work.
• Development opportunities: A good boss can help us grow professionally and reach our career goals.
• Positive work environment: A supportive manager can create a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

While friendships with colleagues can certainly enhance our work experience, the study found that the manager-employee relationship has a more profound impact on overall job satisfaction.

So, what can you do to improve your relationship with your manager?

• Open communication: Be honest and transparent about your work, goals, and challenges.
• Seek feedback: Ask for constructive feedback on your performance and areas for improvement.
• Show appreciation: Express gratitude for your manager's support and guidance.
• Build trust: Demonstrate reliability, integrity, and commitment to your work.

However, this is a two-way street!

The onus of feeling job satisfaction doesn’t just fall on the employee though — even the manager must take steps to build a rapport with their team members.

A 2023 AWI report found that only 28% of employees would strongly recommend their managers to others. This should spur organisations to ensure that their managers are effective drivers of engagement, productivity and retention.

It has previously been highlighted that employees with effective management are at least 3x more likely to feel productive and 5x more likely to show higher levels of job commitment in comparison to those with ineffective managers.

So, as important as it is for employees to invest in their relationship with their manager, a good manager must also work towards creating a more fulfilling and rewarding work experience for their team members.

The findings of the study on why your relationship with your manager matters have been detailed in Psychology of Leaders and Leadership and can be accessed here.