A NATIONWIDE study claims profits may be suffering in companies where bosses have little idea about their employees' needs or points of view.

The research, carried out on behalf of Investors in People UK, shows that the new age of communications is yet to be grasped by some UK employers.

Male bosses were found to be even further behind the times than their female counterparts.

Mr Andrew Heydeman is head of the Bolton and Bury Chamber team which helps local companies achieve Investors in People accreditation.

He said: "Happy employees equals happy customers is a well-known indicator of business performance and profitability -- but some employers are ignoring this wisdom."

He added: "Further independent research shows that Investors in People recognised organisations report increased customer satisfaction, which is one of the reasons why achieving the Standard is proven to boost bottom line performance."