Managers are not engaging with staff while employees are increasingly asking for time to be heard, new research reveals.

According to research company Shine Feedback, 87% of 11,000 employees surveyed think one of the most important management behaviours is taking time to listen - but 52% confirm managers are not very good at understanding the needs of others.

Andy Clare, managing partner at Shine Feedback, said: "In times of stress, individuals rely heavily on natural behaviour and have less time, energy or the inclination to adopt behaviours that require more conscious thought.

"If I am right about this, many managers today will be placing even more emphasis on being seen to deliver - and even less emphasis on taking time to listen. And this is at a time when employees, possibly anxious about job security, require reassurance."

Respondents think managers are most successful at completing tasks (68%) and understanding business challenges (65%).