Condensed staff levels have left managers with fewer professionals on whom to rely
Given the tough economic climate, it's not surprising that executives think being the boss is getting harder every day, according to a new survey.
Eighty per cent of 270 CFOs surveyed by staffing firm Robert Half Management Resources said they believe it's somewhat or significantly more difficult to be a company leader in today's business environment than it was five years ago.
Only 18 per cent said there has been no change and two per cent said it is somewhat less difficult.
"As the business environment is constantly evolving, executives are facing additional pressures everyday," said Mike Gooley, regional vice-president of Robert Half Management Resources.
"There's no question that these challenges are multiplying - watching expenses, growing the business, and keeping motivation and productivity high despite an uncertain economic environment is critical to remaining competitive."
One of the challenges today is managers have fewer professionals to rely on as organizations have condensed staff levels, he said.
One remedy, according to Gooley, is to hire selectively to fill personnel gaps and bring in project professionals who have the necessary experience to help them achieve company objectives.
Is it more or less challenging to be a company leader today versus five years ago?
Significantly more challenging: 47%
Somewhat more challenging: 33%
No change: 18%
Somewhat less challenging: 2%
Much less challenging: 0%
