The Manager Effectiveness Gap: Why Engagement Efforts Fall Short

Manager effectiveness remains one of the strongest predictors of employee engagement, retention, and performance, yet many organizations continue to struggle to equip managers with the tools, time, and support they need to succeed. In this session, Dr. Marline C. Duroseau explores the growing gap between leadership expectations and manager capability, and why traditional engagement strategies often fail to deliver sustainable results. Drawing on Brandon Hall Group research and client insights, she examines what organizations frequently underestimate about the manager role, how ineffective management drives hidden business costs, and why improving manager effectiveness is critical to organizational performance. Attendees will learn how to rethink manager support through a business lens, identify early indicators of manager strain, and design systems that enable managers to lead effectively without becoming overwhelmed.