Forties People

People who are applying for office manager jobs could find their leadership skills are placed under high scrutiny.

According to Henley Business School, businesses are putting a much greater emphasis on leadership development as the UK aims to recover from the recession.

More than two-thirds of businesses polled by the group said the development of middle managers is extremely important to them.

It is hoped this will enable them to cope with changing circumstances in uncertain economic times and get the most out of their workforce.

Linda Irwin, executive director of corporate development, commented: "Softer skills, in leadership styles and in coaching for instance, that bring out the very best in people and facilitate team working are a priority."

The survey also showed that attracting new talent is also on the agenda this year, along with a greater focus on succession planning.

This comes after a study by the Chartered Management Institute found that 47 per cent of workers have left a job because of bad management.