Uncertain Economy Weighs Heavily on US Workers, Accenture Study Finds

NEW YORK; Nov. 13, 2008 – Nearly two-thirds of U.S. middle managers say that the economy is having a negative impact on their work environments, according to an Accenture (NYSE: ACN) survey released today.

The survey of more than 300 U.S. middle managers found that 61 percent said that employees are concerned about losing their jobs or that morale is down.  Additionally, more than half (53 percent) of respondents said they are dissatisfied or only somewhat satisfied with their jobs.

“In an uncertain economic environment, employers will need to take extra care in keeping employees engaged and ensuring that they maintain their job performance,” said David Smith, managing director of Accenture’s Talent & Organization Performance practice in North America.  “Sound talent management strategies are now more important than ever.”

Despite the dissatisfaction, only 13 percent of middle managers said they are actively looking for a new job.  Two-thirds (66 percent) said they would consider a new job but are not actively looking, but nearly half (46 percent) believe that taking a new job in the current economic environment is risky.  More than one-quarter (27 percent) are taking steps to improve the security of their jobs, such as working harder or longer hours.

“Clearly, job security is of paramount importance to employees right now,” said Smith.  “Nevertheless, employers must continue to find ways to improve the work experience for their employees or they may be faced with an unwelcome rise in employee departures when the economy improves.”

Read the full press release here.

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