By Sally Pritchett
CEO
What does 2025 have in store for the workplace - and how can effective, inclusive communication help navigate the challenges ahead?
We’ve reviewed insights from leading organisations, including Great Place to Work, Top Employer, Make Work Better, Gallup, Mercer, and more. We’ve identified the six key trends shaping workplace culture, and how communicators can play a pivotal role in supporting these trends.
1. Changing workforce demographics
As the workforce spans more generations than ever, the growing generational gap could lead to intergenerational tensions.
How communicators can help:
Earlier in the year we explored the communications challenges that can cause friction between different generations. Check out our practical guides on unravelling ageism, improving collaboration between generations, shifts in language, channels and communications format and hear from experts on how the multigenerational workforce can be united.
2. Creating Neuroinclusive workplaces
With greater awareness of neurodiversity, organisations are recognising the value of different ways of thinking. To unlock this potential, workplaces need to become more neuroinclusive.
How communicators can help:
Explore how to create neuroinclusive work environments or sign up to this event on the 10 January with Autism Unlimited, to learn practical steps and strategies to foster a neuroinclusive workplace culture.
3. Adapting to evolving technology
While technology promises greater efficiency, it also risks overwhelming employees if not managed carefully. Adding new communication channels without retiring outdated ones can lead to digital overload.
How communicators can help:
Discover how to identify and address communication overload in your organisation. Read this article for practical fixes and insights into improving digital body language for more meaningful, productive interactions.
4. Focusing on sustainability and ESG
The climate crisis demands urgent action, and organisations need to actively engage employees in their sustainability and ESG efforts. There’s no room for “climate fatigue.”
How communicators can help:
In this research, we discovered how different generations talk about climate and sustainability so that we engage employees and create a culture of sustainability.
To carry on the conversation in 2025, join our Green Monday sessions to hear from sustainability and comms leaders on how they are engaging their communities.
5. Strengthening belonging and inclusion
Everyone deserves to feel safe, included, and free to be themselves at work. Accessibility plays a vital role in creating an inclusive environment where everyone can fully engage and contribute.
While progress in DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) has accelerated, there’s still much work to do – especially as rising workplace loneliness highlights the gaps in creating truly connected and supportive cultures. Accessible communication can help to ensure no one is left out, fostering a sense of belonging that goes beyond physical and digital barriers.
How communicators can help:
For communications to be impactful and inclusive, they must also be accessible. Give everyone the same access to your comms with our practical advice on levelling up accessibility in your communications
6. Prioritising health & Wellbeing
Declining employee wellbeing continues to raise alarm bells – from burnout and mental health challenges to rising cancer rates and reduced physical activity.
How communicators can help:
Take the first step in building a culture of wellbeing. Read our guide for practical strategies, or explore how to support employees living with cancer.
As we approach 2025, fostering a workplace culture that is healthy, safe, and inclusive has never been more critical. If you’re looking for expert support to develop internal communications strategies that engage and empower your workforce, we’re here to help.