A recent survey has highlighted a common belief in the workplace: people often leave their bosses, not their jobs. The report from recruitment firm Robert Walters, published on May 27, 2025, reveals that a significant number of employees cite poor leadership as a primary reason for their departure.
According to the survey, 63% of employees said they left their last job due to a lack of connection with their managers. Furthermore, 68% reported feeling misled by management’s promises. This points to a growing concern about the quality of leadership in many organizations.
The report emphasizes the importance of human-centric leadership. This approach involves leaders who are inclusive, empathetic, and focused on more than just profits. Such leaders create a supportive work environment where employees feel safe and valued.
Unfortunately, many employees have experienced the opposite. The survey identified several traits of ineffective leadership. A staggering 72% of respondents noted a lack of transparency, while 66% mentioned inconsistency. Other issues included avoiding accountability, ignoring employee wellbeing, and micromanagement.
Gerrit Bouckaert, CEO of Robert Walters, commented on the findings, stating that leadership success is easier when employees are prioritized. He believes that investing in people is just as crucial as investing in technology. Organizations that adopt a human-centric approach are reportedly 1.5 times more likely to retain top talent and 2.6 times more likely to achieve their goals.
Bouckaert also stressed the importance of fostering a culture of psychological safety, flexibility, and continuous learning. He warned that leaders who do not engage with their teams risk losing not only loyalty but also valuable insights for improvement and growth.
To help leaders become more human-centric, the report suggests several strategies. These include providing coaching on empathy and emotional intelligence, ensuring clear communication, maintaining a positive company culture, and actively engaging with employees.
As organizations continue to evolve, the need for strong, compassionate leadership becomes increasingly clear. It appears that the key to retaining talent and driving success lies in putting people first.