Why organizations must strengthen manager capability and learning culture to turn employee motivation into performance.

Employees are motivated and ready to grow. Yet AMA’s new global research reveals that many organizations are not fully prepared to support that ambition through effective coaching, clear communication, manager development, and meaningful learning opportunities.

Based on responses from more than 1,000 professionals, AMA’s 2026 Talent Development Research White Paper examines the disconnect between employee aspiration and organizational support. It also reveals what leaders can do to build stronger managers and a more capable, resilient workforce.

Key findings include:

• Employees are highly motivated to grow, with 87% reporting they feel somewhat to very confident about future advancement opportunities.
• Manager support remains inconsistent, with only 27% of respondents saying their managers are highly effective and 66% reporting they do not receive frequent support from managers.
• Many managers are promoted without preparation, with 51% of respondents reporting they entered people management without formal leadership training.
• Human capabilities are still major skill gaps, including communication, leadership, decision making, collaboration, critical thinking, and prioritization.
• Development barriers continue to limit growth, with only 30% of respondents reporting sufficient opportunities to develop new skills.
• Learning becomes more effective when reinforced through daily work, including coaching, feedback, stretch assignments, peer learning, and real-time practice.

This Whitepaper examines why many organizations are unintentionally constraining leadership effectiveness and what actions can help close the gap. It provides practical recommendations for strengthening delegation and building systems that enable leaders to develop others while sustaining performance.

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