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Mending the Trust Divide: Strategies for a More Engaged Workforce

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Mending the Trust Divide: Strategies for a More Engaged Workforce

The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, unveiled in January, has sounded a wake-up call, exposing a troubling global decline in employee trust: Only 75% of workers now believe their employers “do the right thing,” a steep 3-point drop from previous years that underscores a widening trust gap in workplaces worldwide.

As organizations navigate a landscape marked by remote work fatigue, economic uncertainty, and a 3.5% unemployment rate (SHRM, 2025), this erosion of confidence threatens morale, productivity, and retention.

The Techronicler team reached out to a powerhouse panel of HR experts and business leaders to confront this pressing challenge with a critical query:

As an HR or business leader, what practical steps would you suggest to rebuild trust and address this workplace challenge?

Their insightful, hands-on strategies—ranging from transparent communication to innovative engagement initiatives—promise to bridge the divide and reignite a culture of trust.

Dive into their expert roadmaps and discover how to transform your workplace for the better!

Read on!

Kurt Uhlir
Chief Marketing Officer, eZ Home Search

Kurt Uhlir

Let’s stop pretending the trust gap is just about layoffs or bad CEOs—it’s about a lack of clarity and connection.

In my experience leading high-growth companies and coaching other GTM leaders, I see two major breakdowns behind today’s erosion in employee trust.

First, there’s a transparency gap:- Too many leadership teams fail to explain the why behind business decisions. I’m not saying share every spreadsheet—but employees should understand the key outcomes the company is aiming for, across different timeframes. Just as important, they need to know how their day-to-day work contributes. Without that, people feel like bystanders. So when leaders say “we missed our numbers,” it doesn’t feel honest—it feels disconnected. In hindsight, employees often realize they could’ve helped—if only someone had taken the time to connect the dots. Leaders need to remember, sometimes you have to go slow to go fast—or go far.

Second, return-to-office mandates have fractured trust by ignoring how distributed teams really operate:- I’ve said this before, and it keeps proving true: Once your team expands beyond a single office, every additional location functionally becomes remote. That’s when your workplace strategy either scales your culture—or erodes it. I’m not hiring people to sit in a building. I’m hiring them to drive results. Many RTO policies send the wrong message: “We don’t trust you unless we can see you.” That’s a culture killer. And the irony? With modern tools, I have better visibility into performance today than ever before.

Rebuilding trust takes more than a town hall or a Slack update. It requires intentional leadership, visible actions, and repeated clarity. Start there—and the culture will follow.

Margaret Buj
Principal Recruiter, Mixmax

Margaret Buj

Trust is built in the small moments- clear communication, fair treatment, and follow-through. At Mixmax, we operate with a lot of transparency: hiring managers and leadership share strategy updates regularly, and we don’t over-promise.

In my coaching work, the companies that retain trust even in hard times are the ones that:

  • Acknowledge uncertainty honestly.
  • Involve employees in decisions where possible.
  • Follow through on what they say they’ll do (e.g., support for DEI, real investment in wellness, not just performative posts).

Trust can’t be rebuilt overnight, but consistency matters. One leader I worked with started weekly “Ask Me Anything” sessions during a reorg – it turned employee anxiety into collaboration.

Dr. Kirk Adams
Disability Inclusion Strategist & Speaker, Innovative Impact LLC

Dr. Kirk Adams

To rebuild trust in the workplace, especially from a disability inclusion standpoint, leaders must prioritize accessibility, representation, and open communication.

Start by embedding disability inclusion into core values and policies. Ensure all digital and physical environments meet or exceed accessibility standards, and provide reasonable accommodations proactively, not reactively.

Establish Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which are voluntary, employee-led groups that support community and belonging, for people with disabilities. Make sure these groups have executive sponsorship. Inclusive hiring practices, visible leadership commitment, and regular training on disability awareness foster a culture of respect. Involve employees with disabilities in decision-making processes.

Nothing about us without us. Transparent communication about progress and challenges builds credibility and trust. When employees feel seen, heard, and supported, trust follows.

Genevieve Piturro
Founder, Genevieve Piturro LLC

Genevieve Piturro

The change-maker for building trust between management and employees is right in front of us, a truth we’ve always known in our hearts – genuine human connection. It has taken me 25 years to fully embrace the leadership truth that human connection is the expression of love – and love is the key to success for all of us growing our organizations.

Here are a few ways leaders can build trust:

Start each day by asking yourself, “What can I do to bring people together?”: Have some fun and surprise everyone with a long lunch and a game tournament! Try Checkers, Monopoly, even Family Feud! Or, go bigger and bring in a pro to facilitate a Murder Mystery event! While together, highlight uplifting news or updates on a current goal to inspire engaging conversation. Having team fun will last far longer than one day.

“Do you have 30 minutes today? I’d like to know how it’s going.”: Invite someone you’re still getting to know for a one-on-one. Let them know you’re interested in how they’re doing with the project they’re working on and if they have any special weekend or summer plans coming up. Let your heart lead your conversation – it knows exactly what to do – and say.

“What’s one skill that most people don’t know you have?”: It’s SPRING – Take it Outside! Enjoy the smell of flowers and soak up some sun by moving your team – and your conversations outside. Make it fun by ordering a picnic lunch complete with fruit, cheese, sandwiches, chips, and dessert. Start off by asking each team member to answer one question such as, “What’s 1 skill that most people don’t know you have?”

Ruth Rathblott
Speaker, Author, Ruth Rathblott

Ruth Rathblott

The drop in employee trust isn’t just about policies or perks, or just a data point; it reflects something deeper: people don’t feel safe to fully show up at work.

As someone who hid my limb difference for 25 years, I know the toll it takes to pretend everything’s fine—to stay quiet, to overperform in hopes of belonging. That same dynamic plays out in workplaces every day.

And as a former CEO, I also know what it’s like to be in the leadership seat—wanting to build trust with your team, but not always knowing if you’re creating the space for it. It can be lonely. And it takes intentional, consistent work.

When employees feel they have to hide—parts of their identity, their concerns, or their ideas—trust breaks down. And that disconnection quietly erodes engagement, innovation, and retention.

To rebuild trust, leaders need to go first. That means:

  • Naming what’s not being said: Create space for honest, two-way dialogue—not just surveys or check-ins.
  • Modeling vulnerability: When leaders share a challenge or truth, they give others permission to do the same.
  • Valuing difference over sameness: Reward the voices that bring something new—not just the ones that echo the norm.

Trust isn’t a checkbox—it’s a culture. And it starts when people feel safe enough to be seen and ask for the support they need. It’s also a two-way street!

Christopher Migliaccio
Founder, Warren and Migliaccio LLP

Christopher Migliaccio

I’ve led a law firm through major transitions and understand how trust can make—or—break a professional environment.

Over the years, we’ve built a culture that emphasizes transparency and follow-through.

This is what my experiences have taught me:

One of the most effective ways to rebuild employee trust is to ensure that leadership models accountability.

When something goes wrong, owning the mistake publicly, rather than spinning it, can be more powerful than any team-building activity.

Equally important is the consistency between what leadership says and what it does.

Trust breaks when there’s a gap between messaging and action. It rebuilds when even the small promises are kept.

Finally, give employees a meaningful seat at the table—ask for their feedback, implement what you can, and explain transparently when you can’t.

David Goldstein
Founder, TeamBonding

David Goldstein

Drawing from decades of industry experience, I emphasize that involving employees in meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities offers profound benefits, especially in today’s uncertain economic climate.

These initiatives don’t just check a box, they foster a powerful sense of purpose and unity when employees work together towards a common cause.

For organizations, they are a way to demonstrate company values in action and a commitment to making a positive impact both for employees and the larger community.

CSR team-building events, like TeamBonding’s Do Good Bus or Charity Bike Build, are opportunities to boost engagement and create lasting, positive memories, transforming team building into genuinely impactful and fun experiences.

Elene Cafasso
President, Enerpace

Elene Cafasso

The number one way to build trust is to have a high “say/do ratio”. If you say it, announce it or promise it – do it!

Frequent changes in direction lose buy-in because they’re just the “flavor of the month”. Eventually, they’re ignored.

Authentic, frequent communication is the foundation of trust. Speak in conversational language, not PR soundbites.

Even if there’s something you can’t share yet, address the elephant in the room or any rumors. Let folks know when you will be able to share more, or why you can’t do so at this time.

Even if employees don’t like the message, they’ll appreciate your honesty.

Our reptilian brains get triggered when there’s a lack of control, certainty or fairness. Trust is extraordinarily difficult to rebuild if any of these are missing.

Use the Golden Rule and treat people like intelligent adults. It pays off!

Andrea Hayley-Sankaran
Owner, Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm

Andrea Hayley-Sankaran

Rebuilding trust starts with listening—and really meaning it.

At Lotuswood Farm, we keep things small, intimate, and transparent. But even in a tight-knit team, trust can waver when people feel like their voice doesn’t matter. So I make it a point to ask questions without an agenda, to have open conversations where no one is punished for telling the truth.

I also believe leaders need to show more vulnerability. If you want people to trust you, you have to admit when you’re unsure or when you’ve made the wrong call. That builds emotional safety, and emotional safety builds trust.

When trust is present, people take initiative, offer ideas, and stick around for the long haul—not because they have to, but because they want to.

David Maffei
SVP & GM, Staffbase

David Maffei

Rebuilding trust in the workplace starts with strong, consistent communication, and middle managers are the unsung heroes who can make that happen.

As the most trusted source of information, with 57% of employees saying they trust their immediate supervisor “a great deal,” middle managers play a critical role in bridging leadership and frontline teams.

Organizations should provide these managers with timely, transparent updates and encourage two-way communication to further this sense of trust.

Staffbase’s data revealed that 88% of employees who feel well informed about changes also report being happy in their jobs, which ultimately contributes to employee retention and productivity.

Leveraging trusted tools like employee apps, ranked the top source of information by 60% of users, can also further enhance transparency and engagement.

When communication flows clearly and consistently, trust follows.

The HR Spotlight team thanks these industry leaders for offering their expertise and experience and sharing these insights.

Do you wish to contribute to the next HR Spotlight article? Or is there an insight or idea you’d like to share with readers across the globe?

Write to us at connect@HRSpotlight.com, and our team will help you share your insights.

Recent Posts

The DEI Fade: Leaders Share Impacts of Pulling Back

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The DEI Fade: Leaders Share Impacts of Pulling Back

As some organizations dial back their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, the potential consequences for workplace dynamics, employee morale, and organizational success are coming into sharp focus.

Driven by financial pressures, shifting strategic priorities, or external influences, these reductions have ignited discussions about their broader implications.

We asked DEI experts, HR, and business leaders:

What are the possible outcomes of scaling back DEI initiatives?

Their responses highlight significant risks, including eroded trust, diminished innovation, talent attrition, and reputational challenges.

Yet, they also point to opportunities for organizations to reimagine DEI efforts with greater focus and sustainability.

In a world where authenticity and inclusivity are increasingly non-negotiable for employees and customers, these leaders underscore the importance of strategic, intentional approaches to preserve DEI progress.

Explore their expert insights below to uncover the risks, opportunities, and actionable strategies for navigating the complex terrain of DEI in today’s evolving workplaces.

Read on!

Ericka Prentice
Founder, mindfulnessmatters

Ericka Prentice

Let me begin by saying real change is never lasting if it’s based on the horror or sensation surrounding one event. The reasoning behind most of these initiatives was flawed at best and designed to alleviate white guilt.

Let’s be honest, backs were up against the wall after George Floyd because it was blatant and played in constant rotation. We’ve never had a problem with the killing of BIPOC people in this country. In fact, we’re a country that makes lynching postcards, burns a pregnant black woman, cuts her baby from her belly and stomps it to death. George Floyd was a routine lynching.

However, the world knew that Black America was not going to let this just go away and it was watching. The pressure was on and companies had to respond one way or the other.

DEI, the way most companies engaged with and implemented it felt performative at best. It did not and was not ever designed to address structural or systemic issues.

We have never been willing to have those conversations in America. We would rather maintain the comfort of particular groups than address the real needs of marginalized groups.

The companies that are stepping away were never committed to real change, only change that was going to keep them from losing money and their consumer base. They were never interested in doing the hard work or having the tough conversations or truly learning what it’s like to be a part of a marginalized group in this country or in their workplaces. They will say they were, but they lie, period.

This is why I do what I do. In my mind, teaching leaders how to incorporate mindfulness tools in their everyday lives is crucial.

When we teach leaders how to communicate mindfully, to understand aggressive language, how to listen and hold mindful meetings, we create leaders that are more inclusive, more compassionate and engage more meaningfully with their teams. In turn, their teams are more productive and experience genuine psychological safety.

We should’ve begun with mindfulness training prior to leaping into DEI initiatives. Mindfulness tools, and I’m talking beyond just breathwork and meditation, change lives, create better leaders and create better teams.

Dr. Laurie Cure
CEO, Innovative Connections

Dr. Laurie Cure

The current legal and regulatory landscape around DEI is certainly testing organizational agility and stamina. At the present time, I think companies are watching the legal volley around the issues and approaching it with caution, despite often believing and wanting to further the underlying intention of supporting greater representation, fairness and cultures of belonging.

In direct response to the question, organizations that have reduced their DEI initiatives have experienced pushback from consumers and employees alike. Sales, employee retention, reputation and supplier relationships have been negatively impacted by many of the companies that have aggressively moved away from DEI practices.

For organizations whose mission, vision and values are tightly aligned to inclusion, representation and fairness, DEI practices are more critical to them and their customer base. Eliminating or changing these practices has more significant implications.

DEI’s purpose is obviously threefold: ensure a workforce represented by individuals with various backgrounds, a focus on fairness with organizational practices, and creation of an environment where everyone feels respected, valued and empowered.

While underrepresented is often interpreted by race, it more often includes gender, individuals with disabilities, veterans and those who have served in our armed forces, as well as their spouses, LGBTQ, lower socioeconomic and/or educational backgrounds or certain age groups.

DEI is expansive and recognizes that human nature is flawed and biased and seeks to put structures in place that minimize those tendencies so everyone has a fair and equal opportunity. It is not designed to punish certain people who are more deserving or qualified than others, but rather, expand opportunities so everyone who is (or could be) qualified has an equal opportunity to be seen.

Tampering down on DEI practices risks stifling current and future talent and undermining a company’s own ability to compete and achieve higher levels of performance both individually and as organizations.

Ultimately, without focus and emphasis, we revert to old patterns of underrepresentation and we know that often leads to lower business performance. We also know from current research that most employees want diversity, equity and inclusion in their workplaces.

While there might be disagreement around specific practices, employees and leaders desire cultures that embrace diversity, fairness and belonging (call it what you will). Turnover, engagement, innovative thinking, and toxic workplace behavior, are all at risk with declining emphasis on these efforts.

I also think it is important that we continue to understand the difference between DEI and affirmative action. While there are some areas of overlap, most companies we work with (many who operate across the globe) are maintaining DEI efforts (although they might be calling them something different) and more closely examining affirmative action strategies, which often.

What is often more interesting to me is looking at those organizations that have elected not to move away from DEI practices.

They are staying within the law by eliminating quotas and race-based preferences, but they are maintaining (and growing) a commitment to language, DEI-specific programs, employee resource groups, inclusive hiring practices and benefits packages, and community engagement, which fosters diversity and inclusion.

Sahara Rose De Vore
Founder & CEO, The Travel Coach Network

Sahara Rose De Vore

Companies claim that company culture and wellbeing are part of their core values yet, scaling back on DEI programs speaks otherwise.

In order to promote a happier and healthier workplace, there needs to be diversity. To build compassion, empathy, acceptance, and understanding amongst coworkers, which in turn, boosts company culture, there needs to be diversity in cultures, abilities, genders, ages, etc.

This is because we are all different as human beings. Through interactions, conversations, and time spent with people who are different from yourself, your understanding and empathy for others builds.

Companies need good company culture to succeed. People need to feel understood, accepted, and trusted to perform well, to exercise their creative juices, and to be motivated.

Without a diverse workplace, employees will struggle to see new perspectives and lack care for team work, ultimately hurting the company itself.

Jamie Graceffa
HR Executive, Kind Cards

Jamie Graceffa

As DEI initiatives come under increasing scrutiny, HR professionals are being called to reimagine how we uphold psychological safety, build employee engagement, and nurture an inclusive culture—without compromising compliance or values. One powerful, unifying solution is kindness.

Kindness is not a soft skill—it’s a strategic one. It offers a human-centered bridge that helps preserve the essence of DEI, especially in climates where traditional approaches are being scaled back. Far from being politically charged, kindness strengthens trust, reduces conflict, and improves team dynamics. It reinforces inclusion and well-being while delivering measurable outcomes like stronger retention, improved performance, and a more meaningful employee experience.

Without DEI initiatives, the foundation of a healthy workplace culture begins to crack. Trust erodes, morale drops, and creativity is stifled. One-note thinking limits innovation, while unchecked bias opens the door to exclusion and toxicity. The consequences aren’t just cultural—they’re business-critical.

Intentional kindness in the workplace isn’t just a feel-good practice—it’s a catalyst for belonging, resilience, and long-term success.

Mark Sanchez
Founder, Tropic Residential

Mark Sanchez

We believe in fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and represented—but we also believe the long-term success of any organization depends on a foundation of merit.

Scaling back DEI entirely risks alienating valuable voices, but overcorrecting can dilute the focus on performance and accountability.

The most sustainable approach is one that opens the door for everyone, then lets ability, work ethic, and results guide growth. Inclusion and merit don’t have to compete—they work best when they’re aligned.

Barbara Marzari
Communication & Engagement Strategy Director, Sociabble

Barbara Marzari

In the past few years, DEI programs have built more engaged, creative, and productive workplaces. So naturally, companies risk losing talent and weakening the morale and overall company performance if they pull back on DEI efforts.

From my experience helping entrepreneurs build their reputations, it is clear that inclusivity is a necessity today. If companies ignore DEI, they will surely see a decline in employee satisfaction, especially among underrepresented groups who feel that their voices are no longer being heard or valued. This could become costly both financially and in terms of brand equity.

Moreover, the young generation focuses on inclusivity and wishes their employer to do the same. So, scaling back DEI efforts could damage a company’s reputation in the eyes of potential hires as well. Once a company is seen as backward in DEI, it will struggle to attract top talent. This will become a bigger issue in creative industries where diversity brings innovation and performance.

DEI initiatives definitely demand effort and investment. However, such effort and investment are very small compared to the kind of reputation they build in the longer run. DEI builds a resilient and expanding company culture, and scaling it back would also pull back the progress companies have made.

So, how you decide to navigate through this as an organization is really going to matter.

Corina Tham
Finance & Sales Director, CheapForexVPS

Corina Tham

Reducing DEI efforts might influence the inclusiveness and equity within organizations. From my standpoint, particularly in fields like trading, varied viewpoints are essential for driving innovation and making sound decisions.

Pulling back on equity and inclusion could limit the diversity of ideas and hinder creativity in addressing challenges. Since trading relies heavily on examining different market trends and patterns, diverse teams are better positioned to tackle issues from various perspectives.

Businesses may also risk losing top talent who prioritize inclusive work cultures, which could impact overall outcomes. Furthermore, minimizing DEI initiatives might damage a company’s reputation, a key factor in client-focused industries like trading.

In my view, fostering diversity doesn’t just uplift individuals but also enhances the collective achievements of the team.

Ushmana Rai
Owner, TDEE Calculator

Ushmana Rai

Pulling back from DEI efforts may provide short-term relief or savings, but in the end, it is a retreat, not only in terms of culture but also competition.

Here’s how:

The Drain on Talent is Real: A large number of today’s workforce, especially the younger generations, look for an inclusive and equitable working environment. Any move that goes backward in DEI creates discontent among diverse talent and sends them out with the feeling that belongingness can be negotiated. This will gradually eat away at innovation and retention.

The Reputation is at Stake: Companies now that are letting DEI stand a step down may be branded as mostly performative. Today’s consumers and stakeholders are so values-led that silence and reversals do not go unnoticed.

Missed-Out Business Growth: A lot of studies have associated diverse teams with better decision-making and increased profits. It is not only a moral failure to scale back DEI but also a failed business strategy.

The Alternative? Refocus, Don’t Retreat: Instead of abandoning DEI, organizations should evolve it by integrating it into core strategies, leadership pipelines, and customer experience. That is the only way that true equity grows, quite, deep.

Karen Cosentino
Chief People Officer, Barge Design Solutions

Karen Cosentino

At Barge, our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture remains steadfast, independent of external policy changes.

We believe that diversity of thought, background, and experience drives innovation, strengthens our teams, and enhances the solutions we deliver. Rather than reacting to policy shifts, we remain focused on what has always been important to us—creating a workplace where all employees feel valued and empowered.

Candidates seek out companies that value inclusivity and professional growth. By focusing on the best talent for the role, we have seen steady increases in representation, particularly in areas where the AEC industry has historically had a higher percentage of men.

Employees are drawn to workplaces where they feel valued and have opportunities to connect. Our employee-led groups and professional development programs provide meaningful engagement beyond daily work, creating a stronger sense of community. We also believe that offering access to a variety of assignments generates an environment where innovation can prosper.

A culture of inclusion is built through daily actions, leadership commitment, and opportunities for connection. HR leadership serves as a resource to leadership and an advocate for employees, playing an important role in connecting all employees. Supporting the creation of employee-led groups or community-sponsored events builds connection and, subsequently, community.

Liam Perkins
Digital Marketing Manager, Privr

Liam Perkins

Scaling back DEI efforts isn’t just a step backward, it’s a full-blown trust fall with no one to catch marginalized employees. Let’s be real: DEI isn’t a “phase” you sunset after hitting a quota. When companies treat it like a trend, they signal that inclusion was performative, not foundational.

For brands like Privr, which exist to uplift LGBTQ+ communities, DEI isn’t optional, it’s the DNA. Gutting these initiatives risks alienating both talent and users who crave authenticity. Imagine a dating app that stops prioritizing queer safety features, trust evaporates overnight.

The anticipated outcome is a decline in creativity.

Homogeneous teams recycle ideas, while diverse teams spark innovation. Without intentional DEI, companies lose their edge in understanding nuanced markets, like Gen Z, who demand brands walk the inclusivity talk.

Plus, backsliding invites PR fires: employees and consumers will call out hypocrisy. Long-term, it’s a talent drain, marginalized folks flee environments where they’re an afterthought. DEI isn’t a cost center, it’s the ROI of relevance.

The HR Spotlight team thanks these industry leaders for offering their expertise and experience and sharing these insights.

Do you wish to contribute to the next HR Spotlight article? Or is there an insight or idea you’d like to share with readers across the globe?

Write to us at connect@HRSpotlight.com, and our team will help you share your insights.

Recent Posts

Retreating from DEI: What HR and Business Leaders Predict

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Retreating from DEI: What HR and Business Leaders Predict

As some organizations scale back their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in 2025, questions arise about the ripple effects on workplace culture, employee engagement, and business outcomes.

The decision to reduce DEI efforts—often driven by budget constraints, shifting priorities, or external pressures—has sparked debate about its long-term impact.

To explore this, we asked DEI experts, HR, and business leaders:

What are the possible outcomes of scaling back DEI initiatives?

Their insights reveal a range of consequences, from diminished employee trust and weakened innovation to potential talent loss and reputational risks.

They also highlight opportunities for organizations to refine DEI strategies to be more impactful and sustainable.

In an era where employees and consumers increasingly value authenticity and inclusion, these experts emphasize the need for thoughtful approaches to maintain progress.

Dive into their perspectives below to understand the risks, opportunities, and strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of DEI in today’s workplaces.

Read on!

Janet M. Stovall
Founder & Principal, Pragmatic Diversity Consultancy

Janet M. Stovall

First, politics is a big factor. We’re seeing more political pushback against DEI, with things like executive orders and laws trying to get rid of these programs. This has created a chilling effect, particularly following last year’s Supreme Court affirmative action decision.

Despite this political pressure, it’s important to note that many companies are not entirely abandoning DEI. A study by the Heritage Foundation (of all organizations) found that 485 of the Fortune 500 companies still actively promote D&I initiatives. This means that 97% of Fortune 500 companies haven’t canceled their DEI programs. And 86% of chief diversity officers expect budgets to remain steady or increase in 2025.

Second, there’s a lot of social tension. Different groups want totally opposite things when it comes to DEI. Some want more action, others call it “woke” and divisive. This puts companies in a tough spot and makes them careful about what they say publicly.

However, the reality is that many companies are simply evolving their programs or being less vocal about them. This approach, while understandable, presents its own set of challenges.

A disconnect between what an organization says (or doesn’t say) and what it does can lead to cognitive dissonance among employees, which erodes trust and engagement. Some organizations, it’s true, will walk away from DEI altogether. Often, these are the companies that didn’t truly see its value and were perhaps caught up in the 2020 surge of interest.

Third, there’s the legal piece. Even though legal changes can be slower, companies have to stay on top of the rules around DEI. Title VII is still in effect, and companies need to comply.

Looking ahead, I think we’ll see some interesting shifts. There may be fewer DEI programs overall, but the ones that remain are likely to be more effective. We’re already seeing surface-level solutions, like basic awareness training or simplistic actions that claim to “solve” this very complex issue, fall away.

What I believe will endure are objective, business-outcome focused approaches that are measurable and deliver tangible results.

Ultimately, companies that have been treating diversity as a real business asset, not just a marketing buzzword, will keep at the work. How they do it might change, but the commitment will stand.

Dr. Kamille Richardson
Founder, iSee Technologies

Dr. Kamille Richardson

When companies start pulling back on their DEI efforts, the ripple effects go way beyond just optics or PR. It can cause real problems.

Without a focus on inclusion, businesses miss out on the fresh perspectives that drive innovation and help tackle big challenges. And for employees with disabilities, the impact tends to hit even harder—fewer accommodations, less accessible tech, and not enough support to thrive and grow.

These gaps create barriers that hold talented people back, which leads to higher turnover, lower morale, and fewer future leaders in the pipeline.

The truth is, when DEI slips down the priority list, disabled professionals often feel it first. Accessibility starts to feel like an afterthought instead of something that’s baked into how the company operates day-to-day.

We’ve seen how remote work opened doors for many people with disabilities—but without clear, thoughtful policies, those flexible options can disappear, replaced by one-size-fits-all approaches that don’t work for everyone.

Even more concerning? Rolling back inclusion can reinforce outdated ideas about disability, turning necessary tools and support into things seen as “nice to have” instead of what they really are—smart, strategic investments in people.

It’s not just disabled employees who lose out, companies miss the chance to tap into the unique insights and problem-solving skills that come from people who’ve spent their lives navigating complex systems.

That kind of perspective is exactly what modern businesses need more of—not less.

Kevin Kaminski
CTA Certified Coach, Wise Owl Coaching LLC

Kevin Kaminski

Are organizations prepared to risk their competitive edge by scaling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives?

Former US Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg explained an important business principle behind DEI when he said, “The opposite of diversity is uniformity. The opposite of equity is inequity. The opposite of inclusion is exclusion.” Few companies in competitive markets will thrive by staking their future on having a uniform, inequitable, and excluded workforce.

Consider the data: a 2023 McKinsey & Company study showed that companies with the most gender-diverse executive teams are 39% more likely to outperform their least-diverse peers, a rate that more than doubled in the last decade. When ethnic diversity on the executive team was examined, the most ethnically diverse were also 39% more likely to outperform the least diverse.

As a career-success coach, I’ve seen talented, high-performing individuals lose motivation and passion when their employer’s values conflict with their own. Misalignment in values often translates directly into employee turnover, reduced productivity, and lower morale.

Employees seek organizations with cultures that reflect their values. Most employees’ values include commitments to fairness, inclusion, and diversity. According to a 2020 Glassdoor study, 76% of job seekers think a diverse workforce is an important factor when evaluating companies and job offers.

Companies scaling back on DEI efforts risk consequences in attracting and retaining top talent. Eliminating DEI signals that diversity, fair treatment, and inclusion are not strategic priorities. When current and potential employees see that as a misalignment with their own values, it can trigger an exodus of talent and damage to the company’s reputation as a desirable employer.

Reducing DEI initiatives isn’t just ethically problematic, it’s strategically detrimental.

Companies with a diverse set of employees benefit from having the varied backgrounds, experiences, and skills from that diversity in their talent pool.

Limiting the diversity of employees by eliminating DEI efforts reduces their ability to innovate, adapt, and compete effectively. Companies willing to continue investing in diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces will reap financial, reputational, and operational advantages. Those that don’t will struggle in an increasingly complex global marketplace.

Silvia Angeloro
Executive Coach, Editor in Chief, Resume Mentor

Silvia Angeloro

What strikes me most is how quickly this can erode trust and morale among employees, especially those who’ve relied on these initiatives to build equitable spaces.

I’ve worked in environments where DEI efforts were deprioritized, and the immediate consequence was subtle yet significant. Employees of marginalized groups started disengaging, feeling as though their contributions mattered less.

I recall one instance where scaling down DEI programs led to unintended ripple effects. A once-thriving mentorship program for underrepresented employees was quietly discontinued.

Over time, I observed talented individuals leaving the organization, not because of performance issues but because they felt their professional growth and inclusion were no longer supported. It was a stark reminder of how such initiatives impact the broader culture.

Cutbacks may save resources in the short term, but the long-term result can be a loss of diversity, innovation, and employee loyalty. Organizations should tread carefully, finding ways to sustain DEI efforts, even in scaled-back forms, to maintain meaningful progress.

Leila Rao
Agile Coach, Author, & Business Strategist, Cultural Cartography

Leila Rao

Scaling back DEI is about more than budgets, qualifications, or even talent. DEI is a framework that strengthens how organizations operate.

When DEI is treated as a trend or a checkbox, it’s the first to go. But organizations that embed equity into how they listen, hire, lead, and adapt? They build sustainable trust, innovation, and resilience.

Pulling back may offer short-term relief, but long-term, it signals misalignment with the diverse realities of both workforce and market.

The outcome? Missed insight, eroded engagement, and a shrinking circle of relevance.

Yolanda Slan
Head of Human Resources, Televerde

Yolanda Slan

There is no question that the DEI brand has been politicized and used to divide people. As a result, many people don’t even understand what DEI is. I’ve had people genuinely surprised when I tell them that programs like maternity leave or second-chance hiring are DEI initiatives. That’s telling. This is not a failure of intention—it’s a failure of messaging.

But the mission isn’t going away. It’s evolving. Maybe it emerges under a different name, or perhaps we stop naming it altogether. But the best organizations will continue to invest in practices that reflect the spirit of diversity, equity, and inclusion because it’s the right thing to do and the smart thing to do. Customers will also continue to demand it and look to invest their dollars in companies that invest in people.

I hope to see more intentionality in this next chapter—fewer check-the-box initiatives, more meaningful efforts that produce measurable results, and more clarity about what DEI actually is: practical support for real people in all their differences and life experiences.

Leaders need to avoid activism in the workplace, meaning they should never be pushing personal agendas. However, they do need to be active—actively creating workplaces where people feel like they belong, are treated fairly, and have what they need to succeed.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s absolutely OK to bring personal experiences and perspectives into the workplace. We know that diverse viewpoints lead to better decisions. But, every program, initiative, and conversation must be grounded in the company’s values, aligned with its goals, and designed to make sure no employee feels excluded.

Kristen Boyle
Vice President of Marketing, HireRoad

Kristen Boyle

As some organizations begin to scale back their DEI initiatives, it’s important to recognize the very real business risks this decision may carry.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion aren’t just values—they’re proven drivers of performance.

Companies that deprioritize DEI may soon see the consequences reflected in their bottom line: declining customer engagement, weakened brand perception, and missed revenue opportunities.

That’s why it’s more important than ever to use data to reinforce the business case for DEI. By connecting people metrics to business outcomes—such as linking inclusive hiring practices to higher retention, or diverse leadership to stronger innovation—organizations can quantify the value DEI brings.

If companies choose to step back from DEI, they should at least equip themselves with the right data to understand what’s at stake.

With this evidence, they’ll not only be able to measure the impact of deprioritizing DEI—they’ll also be better positioned to justify bringing it back when the costs of inaction become clear.

Adam Posner
Founder & President, NHP Talent Group

Adam Posner

Based on my experience and the clients we have worked with, we have observed that scaling back DEI initiatives may offer short-term cost savings.

Still, it risks long-term consequences in culture, innovation, and talent attraction. Inclusive teams consistently outperform less diverse ones, and candidates, especially Gen Z, pay close attention to whether companies walk the talk.

Organizations that deprioritize DEI may struggle to build trust with employees and customers alike, while those that stay committed will be better positioned to foster resilience, creativity, and sustainable growth.

Michael Ang
CEO, JobElephant

Michael Ang

Our customers are in a tough spot. They’re committed to diversity, and were committed long before DEI became a common acronym. At the same time, they’re trying to stay out of hot legal water. Some of them are removing advertisements about diversity, or pausing their commitments to some diversity hiring events while they see how this plays out in courts. But they still view diversity as a necessity for filling jobs and something that results in a more successful business.

State laws can conflict with federal laws, making diversity even trickier to navigate right now. On the federal level, the Department of Education is cutting jobs, but that doesn’t mean each state’s education department is. Universities may be cutting some DEI programs, but that doesn’t mean they want to hire everyone who looks and thinks alike. In most cases, their desire to have a diverse student population and a diverse workforce remain, regardless of what’s happening in Washington.

The scaling back of DEI initiatives could fragment the recruitment landscape. As some organizations pause their DEI efforts while others increase them, this could create a divide among job boards. Those with a genuine commitment and a strong following may thrive, while those that are only DEI-in-name-only may struggle.

A lot of organizations change their recruitment advertising budgets mid-year, often July. Instead of just trying to give the appearance to the world that they care about DEI, which unfortunately may have been the case in the past with some organizations, now companies may tweak their budgets to prioritize recruitment channels that deliver measurable results, particularly for protected categories such as veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The HR Spotlight team thanks these industry leaders for offering their expertise and experience and sharing these insights.

Do you wish to contribute to the next HR Spotlight article? Or is there an insight or idea you’d like to share with readers across the globe?

Write to us at connect@HRSpotlight.com, and our team will help you share your insights.

Recent Posts

Navigating the AI Skills Gap: Practical Challenges and Solutions for Leaders

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Navigating the AI Skills Gap: Practical Challenges and Solutions for Leaders

As AI and analytics reshape industries, organizations face the urgent task of equipping their workforce with the skills to thrive in this data-driven era.

However, upskilling employees in AI and analytics is not without its hurdles.

From overcoming resistance to change to addressing skill gaps and resource constraints, HR and business leaders must navigate a complex landscape to ensure successful adoption.

The HR Spotlight team asked top HR and business leaders:
What practical challenges should leaders prepare for when helping their workforce level up on AI and analytics skills?

Their insights highlight critical obstacles—such as fostering a learning culture, securing budget for training, and tailoring programs to diverse employee needs—while offering actionable strategies to overcome them.

In a world where AI proficiency is becoming a competitive necessity, these leaders emphasize the importance of strategic planning, clear communication, and inclusive approaches to empower employees.

Explore their expert advice on preparing for these challenges and building a future-ready workforce in 2025.

Read on!

Grace Savage
Brand & AI Specialist, Tradie Agency

Address Fear First: AI as Teammate, Not Threat

The fear of replacement is real, and it’s the #1 challenge I see when helping teams adopt AI.

The truth is, no tool works unless your people are on board. Right now, the most significant practical challenge across small and medium-sized enterprises isn’t the tool; it’s the trust. AI is moving faster than most employees can mentally process, and without the correct narrative from leadership, it quickly becomes a threat.

Here’s the framework we recommend leaders follow to close the fear gap and make AI adoption stick:

1. Hold the first conversation early and make it about value: Don’t wait for the tools to arrive before addressing the elephant in the room. From day one, tell your team, “We’re not replacing you; we’re upskilling you.” Let them know the great staff will always be valued. AI is here to remove repetitive tasks, not humans.

2. Reframe AI as a teammate, not a threat: We call AI a digital assistant, not a system. The language matters. When staff feel like AI is working with them – answering FAQs, handling follow-ups, drafting notes – they stop resisting it. Show them where it saves time, not where it replaces them.

3. Identify and invest in your early adopters: In every company, there’s someone who’s quietly curious. Support them. Train them first and then let them teach others. This builds internal momentum far better than top-down mandates or external consultants alone.

4. Make upskilling part of the culture: Create a culture where learning AI is a badge of honour, like becoming ‘fluent in digital’. You don’t need full technical literacy; you need familiarity and confidence. Normalize this by hosting 30-minute demos, walk-throughs, or mini-workshops

5. Check in often because fear doesn’t vanish, it evolves: Staff need reassurance during rollout, not just before. Create weekly check-ins, anonymous Q&A sessions, or pulse surveys to understand where the resistance lies. Trust builds with communication, not silence.

AI isn’t a threat to good people. It’s a multiplier for them.

My most practical advice is to build a narrative around value, not fear. Help people build an identity as someone who works well with AI. That’s what’s going to matter most in the next five years.

Vipul Mehta
Co-Founder & CTO, WeblineGlobal

Break Mindset Barriers for Successful AI Adoption

Expect resistance, even from smart teams.

One practical challenge is mindset—people often think AI and analytics are only for data scientists. Breaking that barrier means framing it as a tool, not a threat. Keep early use cases small, relevant, and quick to show value.

Another challenge is uneven learning curves. Some folks will sprint, others will drag. Avoid one-size-fits-all training. Pair fast adopters with slower ones, and use real business data so it feels connected to their daily work.

Also, leadership needs to walk the talk. If managers aren’t using the insights themselves, the team won’t either. The shift isn’t just tools—it’s how decisions are made, and that requires a culture shift more than a tech one.

Niclas Schlopsna
Managing Consultant and CEO, spectup

Meet Teams Where They Are, Not Where Expected

One of the first things I’d flag is the false sense of urgency that often creeps in—leaders feeling like they need to upskill their teams overnight.

That creates chaos.

I’ve seen companies invest in flashy AI courses without checking if anyone even has the baseline data literacy to understand what’s being taught. You’ve got to meet your team where they are, not where you wish they were.

At spectup, when we guide clients through AI readiness, we start by mapping out existing capabilities and aligning those with the business use cases that actually matter, not just the trendiest ones.

Another big challenge is the “fear factor.” People worry that AI will make them irrelevant, which leads to resistance or shallow engagement. I remember a session with a startup we were advising—everyone nodded through the AI onboarding, but no one actually used the tools after.

It wasn’t until we framed the tech as a support, not a replacement, and tied it to specific outcomes—like saving hours on reporting or refining investor insights—that people bought in.

Also, don’t underestimate how long it takes to operationalize what’s learned. You’re not just teaching tools—you’re reshaping workflows, KPIs, even mindsets. Make room for experimentation, and allow failure without penalty.

One of our clients only saw traction after they created internal “AI champions” to guide peers and offer real-world examples from their own work. That human layer made all the difference.

Vikrant Bhalodia
Head of Marketing & People Ops, WeblineIndia

Solve Today’s Problems to Overcome AI Adoption Fear

One of the biggest challenges we ran into was fear, not just fear of being replaced by AI, but fear of looking behind. No one admits it, but it shows up when people avoid trying new tools or stay quiet in sessions.

We shifted our approach. Instead of framing AI and analytics as “the future,” we made it about solving today’s problems. We ran short internal challenges, things like using AI to draft reports or prep for client calls. Once people saw how it saved time and effort, engagement went up.

We also realized that a one-time training wasn’t enough. So, we added five-minute mini-learnings to regular team meetings. We’d highlight something a teammate tried that week. It kept the momentum going without making it feel like extra work.

If I had to sum it up: address the emotional barrier first. Then connect the learning to something real. That’s when adoption starts to stick.

Derek Pankaew
CEO & Founder, Listening.com

AI Creates Identity Crisis, Not Just Skill Gaps

As a founder with a team that’s integrating more AI tools by the week, one challenge I’d flag for other leaders isn’t technical—it’s psychological.

The biggest hurdle?

The silent shame that creeps in when smart, capable employees feel like they’re suddenly behind. AI doesn’t just introduce new tools—it messes with people’s sense of competence.

You’re asking a mid-level analyst, who used to feel sharp and on top of their game, to admit they don’t understand a tool that a fresh grad just automated a dashboard with.

That’s not a technical gap. That’s an identity crisis. And nobody wants to talk about it.

If you want people to level up on AI and analytics, you can’t just throw them into a Notion doc of prompts and tutorials.

You have to actively defuse the ego threat. Normalize being clueless.

Create “sandbox hours” where teams can experiment without deliverables or pressure to be efficient. Celebrate learning curves, not just output. Otherwise, you’ll see people resist the tools they think are replacing them—because deep down, they’re mourning a version of themselves that used to feel valuable.

That’s the real work of leadership here. Not training people on GPT or Python—but helping them rewrite what “being good at your job” means in this new era.

Justin Belmont
Founder & CEO, Prose

Create Safe Spaces to Bridge AI Confidence Gap

The biggest curveball? The confidence gap.

Most employees aren’t resisting AI—they’re afraid of looking dumb.

The practical challenge is creating low-stakes learning environments where people can tinker, fail, and ask “obvious” questions without fear.

Gamified training, peer-led sessions, even AI mentors can help.

Upskilling isn’t just technical—it’s emotional. If you don’t manage that, your tools will outrun your team.

Edward Tian
CEO, GPTZero

Plan Training Around Those Who Need Most Help

Understand that not all of your workers are going to be able to adopt new AI and tech-related skills as quickly or easily.

This is especially true for cross-generational workforces.

It’s going to probably be a lot more common for Baby Boomer and Gen X workers to struggle more with learning these skills that it will be for Millennials and Gen Zers. So, you want to prepare for that.

Plan your training around those who you know will need the most help and require the most time.

Michelle Garrison
Event Tech and AI Strategist, We & Goliath

Assign Platform Ambassadors to Solve Tool Fragmentation

Tool fragmentation during content deployment feels exactly like trying to coordinate a hybrid event across six different platforms while your speakers are scattered across three time zones.

I think the real issue isn’t that teams need more integrated software—it’s that they’re trying to force editorial workflows into project management boxes that weren’t designed for creative iteration.

For our part, we discovered that video production actually flows more smoothly when we accept tool diversity instead of fighting it. We use Frame.io for visual feedback, Slack for quick decisions, and Notion for documentation, but we assign specific team members as “platform ambassadors” who translate information between systems.

The pain point isn’t multiple tools—it’s the cognitive overhead of context-switching without designated translators. Most editorial teams could solve 70% of their coordination problems by having one person whose job is simply moving information between platforms rather than trying to find the mythical “one tool that does everything.”

Josiah Roche
Fractional CMO, JRR Marketing

Rethink Workflows Before Adding AI Tools

One of the biggest challenges is getting people to unlearn outdated thinking. There’s a lot of excitement around learning prompt engineering or building dashboards, but not enough willingness to question whether current workflows still make sense.

So AI isn’t just a new layer of tools. It requires rethinking how decisions are made, how data flows through the business, and how fast teams can move. Without that shift, most AI efforts end up reinforcing broken systems instead of improving them.

Another challenge is emotional. When people hear “AI,” many worry it’s going to replace them. That fear can slow adoption more than any technical hurdle.

So the mindset shift is moving from doing the task to directing the system. It’s about becoming someone who uses machines to scale judgment, not just output. Some people adapt quickly. Others need time, examples, and a clear reason to change. Because of that, culture and incentives matter more than any training program.

Tool overload is also common. It’s tempting to roll out every trending platform like Power BI, ChatGPT, or Looker and expect productivity to follow. But more tools usually create more confusion. So what works better is starting with one narrow use case that clearly saves time or reduces cost. When people see impact, they start asking for more. That’s how adoption grows—when the value is obvious.

Accuracy gets over-prioritized. AI and analytics are probabilistic by nature. So if the bar is perfection, no one will take risks.

Teams need permission to test, learn, and adjust quickly. The advantage isn’t in getting everything right the first time. It’s in how fast feedback loops close and how quickly insights turn into action. That’s what makes AI useful at scale.

Robbin Schuchmann
Co-founder, EOR Overview

Connect Global AI Training to Business Outcomes

When helping a workforce level up on AI and analytics skills, I would say the biggest challenge is managing the diversity in learning curves and cultural expectations across global teams.

In international hiring, you encounter people with very different backgrounds and access to technology, so training programs must be designed to accommodate varying levels of familiarity with AI tools and data literacy. This requires a flexible, inclusive approach that respects local contexts while maintaining a consistent skill baseline.

I also emphasize the importance of aligning AI and analytics skill development with clear business outcomes. Upskilling efforts often fail when they’re too theoretical or disconnected from daily work.

For global teams, this means crafting training that directly supports the roles employees perform, making the learning immediately relevant and actionable. This practical connection helps maintain engagement and accelerates adoption of new technologies.

The HR Spotlight team thanks these industry leaders for offering their expertise and experience and sharing these insights.

Do you wish to contribute to the next HR Spotlight article? Or is there an insight or idea you’d like to share with readers across the globe?

Write to us at connect@HRSpotlight.com, and our team will help you share your insights.

Recent Posts

The Trust Crisis: How Leaders Can Restore Employee Confidence in 2025

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The Trust Crisis: How Leaders Can Restore Employee Confidence in 2025

The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer revealed a troubling trend: employee trust in employers has slipped globally, with only 75% of workers believing their organizations “do the right thing,” a 3-point drop from prior years.

This growing trust gap signals a critical challenge for HR and business leaders, as trust underpins engagement, retention, and productivity.

Economic uncertainty, rapid technological changes, and evolving workplace expectations have heightened employee skepticism, making authentic leadership and transparent communication more vital than ever.

To address this, the HR Spotlight team asked HR and business leaders for practical steps to rebuild trust and foster a resilient workplace culture.

Their insights—ranging from prioritizing open dialogue and accountability to aligning actions with values—offer actionable strategies for organizations aiming to close the trust gap.

In an era where employees demand authenticity and purpose, these steps can help leaders not only restore confidence but also strengthen organizational loyalty and performance.

Discover how top leaders are tackling this challenge and paving the way for a more trusted workplace in 2025.

Read on!

Khalilah “KO” Olokunola
Chief People Strategist & Impact Architect, ReEngineering HR

Trust Erodes Quietly, Rebuilds Through Consistent Action

The Barometer confirmed what many of us already feel in the culture space: employee trust is slipping. A 3-point drop may sound small, but trust rarely collapses overnight; it erodes in quiet moments, minor inconsistencies, & missed opportunities to align what’s said with what’s done.

This isn’t just about trust in leadership, it’s about systems, values, and cultural credibility. And rebuilding trust doesn’t start with a campaign, coffee bar, or comms strategy. It starts with behavior.

From our lens, trust isn’t intangible, it’s the infrastructure holding your people, culture, & performance together. When it wobbles, so does everything else.

So, how do we rebuild it?

1. Lead with transparent intent, not perfect outcomes. People don’t expect perfection; they expect honesty. Share the strategy and the struggles. Transparency isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about not hiding the real ones.

2. Make listening tangible and visible. Feedback can’t feel like it disappears into a black hole. Listen, respond, and show what changed because of employee voice. Ask first, shape second.

3. Coach leaders to show up human-first. Psychological safety starts with leadership. When leaders are empathetic and authentic, teams feel seen and heard.

4. Align actions to values. If equity is a core value, show it in processes. Trust grows from what people experience, not what’s written on a wall.

Some Practical steps we suggest?

Implement a Trust Dashboard: Track signals like fairness, communication, belonging, and leadership credibility. Make it public. Make it actionable. We all know that what gets measured gets moved.

Re-onboard after the change: Treat it as a culture reset after mergers or restructures. Help employees reconnect to purpose, values, and expectations. Trust increases when direction is clear.

Empower managers as trust-builders: Managers shape daily experience. Equip them with toolkits, training, and clarity to lead with empathy.

Own your Uh Oh moments. I also call this the Eminem Factor: In 8 Mile, Eminem wins by telling on himself and sharing things the other rapper could use against him. Organizations should do the same.

Acknowledge what went wrong or what could be used against you and share how you’ll fix it. Avoiding the truth only deepens the gap.

Trust isn’t a checkbox. It’s a relationship built through clarity, consistency, and care. And if we want engaged teams and resilient cultures, rebuilding trust isn’t optional. It’s the work.

Vikrant Bhalodia
Head of Marketing & People Ops, WeblineIndia

Transparent Decision-Making Builds Trust Without Fanfare

We noticed trust slipping a bit when changes were rolled out without enough explanation. So instead of just announcing decisions, we started explaining the thinking behind them why we made them, what we weighed, and who was involved.

We kept it low-key. Sometimes it was a quick message in Slack. Other times, it was a five-minute voice note. No fluff. Just “Here’s what we were trying to solve, here’s what we considered, and here’s where we landed.”

It wasn’t about getting everyone to agree. It was about being real and open. Once people saw that decisions weren’t random and that there was actual thought behind them—it softened the pushback. Even though changes landed better.

One other thing: we stopped using phrases like “the company decided.” We started saying things like “We as a leadership team chose this” or “The team discussed and aligned on this.” Small language shifts, but they helped. People saw there were people behind the decisions not just a nameless company.

Max Shak
Founder/CEO, nerDigital

Trust Demands Presence, Not Perfection

Rebuilding trust starts with something simple but often overlooked—showing up consistently and communicating transparently. At Nerdigital, I’ve learned that trust isn’t restored with one bold gesture. It’s rebuilt through repeated actions that reinforce accountability, honesty, and shared purpose.

When trust dips, it’s often because employees feel decisions are being made behind closed doors or without their best interests in mind. So one of the first things I do is invite people into the conversation early. We hold monthly team huddles where no topic is off-limits—whether it’s upcoming strategic pivots, internal challenges, or client feedback. The key is not just to inform, but to engage. People need to see their input shaping outcomes.

Second, I make sure leadership is visible and approachable. If your team only hears from you when there’s a directive to follow, you’re missing the point. I personally check in with team members across departments, not to micromanage, but to understand what’s working—and what’s not. That visibility shows we’re in it together, not sitting above it all.

And third, follow-through is everything. If you ask for feedback, act on it. Even small wins—like improving internal tools or updating policies based on employee input—build credibility. It sends the message that leadership listens and takes action.

My advice to other leaders is this: trust doesn’t demand perfection, it demands presence. Be transparent in decisions, be consistent in your values, and create real space for people to speak up. If your team believes you’re genuinely invested in them, that trust becomes resilient—even during tough calls.

Chris Percival
Founder & Managing Director, CJPI

Context and Feedback: Keys to Trust Restoration

To rebuild trust, leaders need to move beyond broad statements and focus on consistently visible decisions which the team understands.

One practical step is increasing contextual transparency — not just sharing decisions, but explaining why they’re being made.

Paired with meaningful feedback loops where employee input leads to actual change, or a sensible explanation of why it isn’t something which could lead to change now, or in future – rebuilding trust is not immediate, but it is absolutely possible.

Niclas Schlopsna
Managing Consultant and CEO, spectup

Trust Forms in Quiet Moments, Not Flashy Campaigns

Trust isn’t built through a flashy campaign or a one-off town hall—it’s earned slowly, mostly in quiet moments. One of the most underrated but powerful steps is to simply show up consistently as a leadership team.

Not just in the boardroom, but in everyday channels where employees talk, worry, and question. I’ve seen how quickly morale improves when a founder joins a product Slack thread or answers a tough question without dodging. At spectup, we make it a habit to over-communicate during uncertain times. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about being real when you don’t.

Another practical move is to give middle managers the tools and autonomy to lead with transparency. They’re often the bottleneck or bridge for trust. I’ve watched a growth-stage startup almost implode because middle management kept sugarcoating tough realities, thinking they were protecting the team.

Once they started sharing the “why” behind decisions—even the uncomfortable ones—engagement shot back up. Lastly, act on feedback visibly. There’s no faster way to kill trust than running a survey, hearing hard truths, and doing nothing.

We helped one of our clients turn that around by publicly mapping feedback themes to action items, then reporting progress monthly. It wasn’t perfect, but it showed intent—and intent goes a long way.

Andy Danec
Owner, Ridgeline Recovery LLC

Radical Transparency Transforms Treatment Center Culture

As the owner of an addiction treatment center in Ohio, I’ve seen firsthand how fragile trust can be—and how vital it is to the health of any team. In our field, trust isn’t a perk, it’s a necessity. Clients depend on it. Staff morale depends on it. And when it breaks, everything suffers.

One of the most practical steps I’ve taken to rebuild and protect trust is committing to radical transparency. That means being open about challenges the business is facing, not sugarcoating tough decisions, and involving staff early in conversations that impact them. People don’t expect perfection—they expect honesty.

Another key move was implementing structured, recurring one-on-one check-ins between leadership and staff. Not performance reviews, but real conversations. “What’s working for you? What’s not? What do you need from me?” That regular rhythm of communication makes people feel seen—and heard.

Lastly, I make sure follow-through matches the promises we make. Trust erodes quickly when leadership talks about values but doesn’t live them. If we say we’re about compassion, accountability, or equity, our policies, hiring, and everyday behavior have to reflect that—consistently.

If trust is dipping across the board, it’s a sign that leaders need to stop broadcasting and start listening. That’s where repair begins.

Justin Belmont
Founder & CEO, Prose

Trust Grows From Action, Not Empty Promises

Trust isn’t rebuilt with town halls and platitudes—it’s earned through transparency and follow-through.

One practical step: flip the script on feedback.

Don’t just collect it—report back on what you heard, what you’re doing about it, and when.

Create visible accountability loops.

When employees see their input turned into action, trust builds organically. In 2025, trust is less about what you say—and all about what you ship.

Grace Savage
Brand & AI Specialist, Tradie Agency

Five Structural Elements That Rebuild Workplace Trust

In my experience, trust isn’t lost all at once. It erodes gradually, from feeling unheard, unseen, and unvalued. So, if you want to close the gap, you’ve got to rebuild it from the inside out. And that starts with culture, not comms. You don’t fix trust with slogans; you fix it with structure.

The 5 E’s of Rebuilding Trust

Environment – Create moments that feel human, not corporate: Team-building days are often forced, but people trust each other more when they’ve laughed together, not just worked together. We’ve seen real traction with simple, consistent social themes: comedy nights, pizza evenings, even casual trivia. Nothing is mandatory. These are just natural shared experiences that feel like us, not work.

Empowerment – Let your team teach and contribute beyond their job title: We’ve run internal “Show What You Know” workshops where any team member can teach a skill, share an insight, or lead a conversation. These workshops build confidence, visibility, and respect across departments. They’re not about performance; they’re about participation.

Engagement – Don’t just listen to feedback. Make it structured and safe: Agile-style retros work because they depersonalise problems. The focus becomes “what’s working, what’s not,” not “who’s to blame.” It invites everyone to contribute without fear. That’s what builds absolute trust, a safe structure that encourages honesty.

Enablement – Give quieter team members space to contribute: It’s easy for louder voices to dominate. You need deliberate facilitation to bring others in — not just passive encouragement. Assign advocates within the team to involve and support the less vocal. You’d be shocked how much brilliance is hiding in the background.

Experience – Share, don’t shield: When leadership is transparent about wins, losses, and even internal challenges, it draws everyone in. People trust what they understand. We’ve seen firsthand how openness from the top humanises the entire company.

Trust isn’t restored with an all-hands speech; it’s built by design. Create a structure where your team can feel safe, seen, and significant and watch what happens to retention, morale, and performance.

Tracey Beveridge
HR Director, Personnel Checks

Prove Investment in Staff Through Clear Roadmaps

Show that you’re actively investing in your staff and prove to them that they can trust you, and that you DO care.

This has to be done by actually investing in them and showing clear investment road maps for how you’ll assist with personal and professional development over the long-term (it’s not enough to just say that you care).

David Pagotto
Founder & Managing Director, SIXGUN

Radical Transparency and Accountability Restore Workplace Trust

Rebuilding trust in the workplace starts with radical transparency and consistent communication.

Be honest about challenges, decisions, and outcomes, even when difficult. Follow through on commitments without fail; broken promises are trust’s biggest enemy.

Actively listen to employee feedback, both formal and informal, and visibly act on it. Foster a culture of accountability where leaders also admit mistakes and take responsibility.

The HR Spotlight team thanks these industry leaders for offering their expertise and experience and sharing these insights.

Do you wish to contribute to the next HR Spotlight article? Or is there an insight or idea you’d like to share with readers across the globe?

Write to us at connect@HRSpotlight.com, and our team will help you share your insights.

Recent Posts

Beyond the Google Petition: The Debate Over Job Security Guarantees

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Beyond the Google Petition: The Debate Over Job Security Guarantees

How are HR and business leaders responding to the growing calls for greater job security, further propelled by the recent petition from Google employees? 

What are the practical considerations and potential challenges of implementing employment security guarantees across different industries? 

In this post, we tap into the expertise of those on the front lines. 

We’ve gathered insights from leading HR and business executives, asking them to share their opinions on the Google petition and to assess the feasibility of providing employment security guarantees within their specific sectors. 

Their responses offer a grounded perspective on the complexities of this issue and provide valuable guidance for organizations navigating the evolving expectations of the modern workforce.

Read on!

Sania Khan
Founder, Inflection Point Strategy

Sania Khan – Founder

The Google employee petition underscores growing concerns about workforce transitions in the age of AI and automation.

While a job security guarantee may not be entirely feasible in tech, organizations can adopt strategic workforce approaches that enable AI and human talent to evolve together—driving greater long-term ROI than reactive layoffs.

As a labor economist and AI strategist specializing in ethical AI+Human collaboration, I offer insight into AI’s impact on hiring trends, labor markets, and the future of work.

Key Takeaways:

– AI investments must extend beyond cost-cutting. Leaders should ask: Is the workforce upskilled and have the resources to work alongside AI? Productivity gains aren’t automatic.

– Example: A BCGx study on GitHub Copilot found that structured coaching is essential for teams to achieve 2x productivity—AI alone isn’t enough.

– As AI reshapes knowledge work, leaders must redefine Workforce Strategy to ensure AI and human expertise complement rather than replace each other.

– This requires task-level analysis to understand how AI transforms work and how to redeploy talent effectively.

While blanket job security guarantees aren’t realistic, a commitment to workforce resilience and fair transitions is both achievable and necessary.

Companies that focus on long-term agility, upskilling, and AI-human collaboration—not just AI adoption—will emerge as leaders in the future of work.

Samantha Taylor
Business Expert, LLC.org

Samantha Taylor – Business Expert

Job security? It’s a complex problem.

Google employees are seeking an assurance, but in business, there is no such thing as a total assurance.

I’ve dealt with small businesses for over 12 years, assisting them in growing, and one thing is sure, businesses need to stay flexible to succeed.

Lifetime job security guarantee? That can tie a business’s hands.

I work with business owners every day, and they know the key to success is adaptability. Markets move, industries evolve, and companies must change.

If companies can’t pivot, they fail.

That’s why real job security doesn’t lie in a contract, it lies in skills. Workers who constantly learn and grow stay relevant, no matter what happens.

For employers, the most intelligent course of action is to invest in employees, train them, promote them, and give them workplaces where they want to stay.

That’s how you have long-term success, for businesses and workers alike.

I’ve seen it work, time and time again.

Nathan Barz
Founder & CEO, SEO DocVA

Nathan Barz – Founder & CEO

As someone who has navigated corporate restructuring in the financial sector, I see Google’s job security petition as a reflection of broader workforce concerns across industries. 

Over 1,300 employees signed the petition, calling for voluntary buyouts before layoffs, guaranteed severance, and the removal of forced attrition quotas. 

In response, Google introduced a voluntary exit program for its U.S.-based Platforms and Devices team, offering severance packages to those who leave.

From my experience in finance, I’ve seen how major firms handle restructuring, balancing cost-cutting with employee retention strategies. 

Financial institutions have long relied on early retirement incentives and outplacement services to soften the impact of downsizing. 

While absolute job security is unrealistic in today’s dynamic market, companies prioritizing transparency and structured career development foster loyalty and long-term stability. 

Google’s situation highlights the importance of proactive workforce planning, a lesson applicable across industries.

Christopher Pappas
Founder, elearningindustry.com

Christopher Pappas – Founder

Tech employees pushing for job security reveal a deeper concern—workers feel vulnerable in an era of layoffs and AI-driven disruption. 

While companies may not be able to promise lifelong employment, they can provide stability through skill development and career agility.

In L&D and corporate training, we see a major push toward future-proofing talent rather than guaranteeing roles. 

The best companies aren’t offering life contracts—they’re offering skills that keep employees in demand, no matter where they go.

Hayden Cohen
CEO, Hire With Near

Hayden Cohen – CEO

Job security is an important perk to offer your employees.

People want to know that they aren’t going to have their livelihoods threatened by layoffs, and employees with secure jobs are more likely to stick around and go above and beyond for your business.

Offering a blanket guarantee just doesn’t make business sense, though, especially for a massive organization like Google.

Keeping employees who aren’t performing up to standards or who don’t have the skills to handle the work that actually needs doing just doesn’t make business sense.

Samantha Reynolds
Marketing Director, Helpside

Samantha Reynolds – Marketing Director

With the layoff trends of the last few years in the tech industry and the current uncertainty due to AI innovations like DeepSeek, I think it’s understandable that Google’s employees are organizing around their mutual desire for job security.

I work primarily with small and medium-sized companies, and I see my clients creating true job security for their workforce by embracing agility and investing in their employees.

No matter the industry, an ‘employment security guarantee’ is only as good as the people and businesses making the agreement.

However, in a volatile sector like tech, it seems like more of a band-aid than a true solution.

Kevin Franks
President, Comprehensive Marketing

Kevin Franks – President

The tech industry is built on disruption, and any attempt to insulate workers from market shifts is destined to fail.

Just a few years ago, companies were scrambling to hire, offering top dollar even for junior roles. Now, AI and automation are eliminating large swaths of that same workforce. Yet, some workers expect protection.

The reality is simple: every hire must add profit.

Those who fail to adapt to changing industry demands become an expense, not an asset.

No company—no matter how large—can afford to carry non-essential roles indefinitely.

The only true job security lies in continuous evolution and adaptation.

Instead of fighting inevitable change, tech professionals should focus on upskilling, repositioning, and leveraging new technology.

AI isn’t just eliminating jobs—it’s creating new opportunities for those willing to adapt.

In today’s workforce, survival isn’t about tenure; it’s about value.

James McNally
Managing Director, SDVH [Self Drive Vehicle Hire]

James McNally – Managing Director

Job security sounds great on paper, but businesses don’t run on guarantees. Markets shift, costs change, and demand moves.

No company-Google or otherwise-can promise lifetime stability without limiting flexibility.

A smarter approach?

Invest in employee adaptability instead of security guarantees. When people upskill, cross-train, and stay ahead of industry shifts, they create their own job stability.

My company focuses on keeping employees valuable, not just employed. That keeps us lean while making sure our team stays employable-whether with us or somewhere else.

Security doesn’t come from promises. It comes from being too skilled to let go.

Abhishek Shah
Founder, Testlify

Abhishek Shah – Testlify

The job security petition from Google employees highlights a growing concern in the tech industry-workers want more transparency and fairness in layoffs, better severance, and voluntary buyout options.

While an absolute employment security guarantee isn’t always realistic, companies can still foster stability by prioritizing clear communication, fair policies, and career development opportunities.

In my industry, job security depends on adaptability, but building trust through ethical leadership and transparent decision-making can make employees feel more secure, even in uncertain times.

Nik Aggar
Business Development Manager, Outstaff Your Team

Nik Aggar – Business Development Manager

The job security petition from Google employees is definitely a sign of the times. Over 1,400 employees are asking for things like guaranteed severance, voluntary buyouts before layoffs, and fairer performance reviews.

It’s understandable as tech layoffs have been hitting hard recently, even at companies that seem to be doing just fine financially.

As someone who works in staffing, I see both sides of this. On one hand, employees want stability, they want to feel secure in their jobs. On the other hand, businesses, especially in fast-moving industries like tech, need flexibility to adapt to market changes.

Promising job security across the board might sound great in theory, but in practice? It’s tricky. Companies could end up stretched too thin trying to guarantee jobs while staying competitive.

In our world of HR, we focus more on creating opportunities than offering guarantees.

For example, during the pandemic, we saw a big shift toward contract work. Companies needed to stay lean, and workers needed jobs.

It wasn’t perfect as contract work doesn’t come with the same stability or benefits, but it kept people employed and businesses running.

Can companies like Google realistically offer employment guarantees? Maybe to a degree as they’ve got the resources.

But it’s not just about money; it’s also about staying nimble in a competitive market.

A better approach might be improving transparency around layoffs or offering solid severance and reskilling programs.

The HR Spotlight team thanks these industry leaders for offering their expertise and experience and sharing these insights.

Do you wish to contribute to the next HR Spotlight article? Or is there an insight or idea you’d like to share with readers across the globe?

Write to us at connect@HRSpotlight.com, and our team will help you share your insights.

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