One in three workers would swap their boss if they had the chance, and many believe they could do a better job than their manager, a report showed today.

Poor communication was one of the main reasons for dissatisfaction among employees, although many also complained that their manager had claimed credit for someone else's work.

The most popular boss was someone who delegated work, took an interest in workers' careers and was seen to be firm but fair, the research among 1,700 adults for Investors in People found.

Chief executive Ruth Spellman said: "The fact that almost a third of employees would like a new manager should make bosses sit up and take notice.

"With good communication ranked the most important quality of a good boss, managers need to focus their efforts on setting clear tasks and targets for their staff, and linking an employees' role to the organisation's overall mission.

"Managers should also take note of the messages around delegation, remaining firm but fair, and the importance of looking after their people's careers.

"This is vital information in helping managers better understand how to keep staff motivated and delivering effectively."