First-time Managers survey
89% of first-time managers are thriving in their role, yet 67% report a rising workload.
Discover the balance between first-time managers' motivation, transformation, and pressure revealed in the latest Cegos Group International Barometer.
What is this survey about?
The Cegos Group 2025 International Barometer is an international survey dedicated to first-time managers - those taking on managerial responsibilities for the very first time.
Carried out in March 2025, this survey gathered insights from 4,271 first-time managers and 441 HR and Training decision makers. It was conducted across 10 countries in Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, UK), Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Chile), and Asia (Singapore).
Key findings: what you need to know
- Highly motivated: 89% of first-time managers are satisfied with their performance, and 77% would recommend the role.
- Under pressure: 67% report a growing workload; 47% lack time for the human aspect of their role.
- Supportive onboarding: 74% received support, and 56% were trained before assuming the role.
- AI & CSR involvement: 78% contribute to AI adoption, and 77% are engaged in CSR initiatives.
- Recruitment challenge: 42% of HR professionals struggle to recruit first-time managers and 68% say internal candidates lack soft skills.
- Managerial motivations: Top reasons include better compensation (37%), solving operational problems (37%), and driving performance (31%).
- Top the listsoft skills: Leadership, communication, and fast decision-making are the most critical skills to develop.
Infographic snapshot: the first-time manager in 2025
Click on the image below to download the full infographic
“First-time managers see themselves first and foremost as builders of collective performance. Their priority is clear — to strengthen their team and deliver tangible results.”
Christelle Delavaud, Personal Development Offer and Expertise Manager at Cegos
Download the full survey results
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