Most British workers are eager to step into their boss's shoes and prove that they can do a better job.

According to research conducted for Fish4.co.uk, the UK's most popular careers web site, a staggering 59 per cent of British workers feel they would perform their boss's role as well as or better than he or she does. Only 22 per cent believed they would do less well.

The survey of more than 1,000 workers also revealed that 42 per cent believe luck was a factor, and an ability to play office politics was essential to 39 per cent.

Hard work and experience were also considered important by 70 per cent and 68 per cent respectively, whereas 20 per cent of respondents believed class and background were still crucial for being the boss.

Furthermore, workers know who they would want to work for.

Asked to name ideal bosses, Richard Branson emerged as favourite by 45 per cent of respondents, while Chris Evans was considered the boss from hell, collecting only three per cent of votes. He was seen as less popular than Madonna, The Queen or Cherie Blair.

The survey also revealed the lengths many secretaries and PAs go to on behalf of their bosses, with 12 per cent aware of secretaries lying to their bosses' partners about their whereabouts.

Fish4jobs.co.uk features more than 35,000 jobs every week, and offers a range of services that cater for those looking to move up in the world.

There are plans to introduce additional features to the web site including CV Workshops and interview advice.

Rayne Roberts, Fish4Jobs publisher, said: "The results of the survey show a lot of workers are dissatisfied with their jobs. If workers feel they deserve to advance, Fish4Jobs.co.uk has all the tools they need to find the perfect job, or improve the position they already hold."