Global Talent #24
Why Job Security Concerns Are Worsening and the Burnout in Europe’s Leadership
Are Job Security Concerns Worsening in 2025?
Amrita Ahuja | Staffing Industry Analysts | January 22, 2025
In a climate of economic uncertainty, a recent survey by MyPerfectResume reveals that a significant majority of U.S. workers, a whooping 81% are anxious about potential job loss in 2025. This concern marks a substantial increase from the previous year, with 20% reporting heightened anxiety compared to 2024. As businesses pivot towards freelance and contract labor, 85% of workers anticipate a continuing shift away from traditional full-time roles. Upskilling becomes a priority, with 61% of workers planning to enhance their capabilities this year. Additionally, the gig economy is expected to expand, with 68% predicting further growth. Layoffs are a looming threat, with 76% foreseeing an increase, while recession fears grip 92% of the workforce. Meanwhile, burnout remains a critical issue, aggravated by job insecurity and the potential return to office mandates.
What Questions Should You Use to Reveal Employee Well-being and Engagement?
Rebecca Knight | Harvard Business Review | December 17, 2024
In an era where employee engagement and well-being are increasingly under scrutiny, understanding how employees truly feel about their work is essential for effective leadership. Recent findings highlight that 60% of employees struggle with engagement, and one in five feels lonely, posing significant challenges for productivity and company performance. To counteract these trends, leaders should conduct focused one-on-one meetings using a set of six questions designed to elicit deeper insights into employee sentiments. These questions cover areas from emotional state ratings to personal interests outside of work, aiming to build trust and ensure open communication. The approach emphasizes the importance of genuine concern and active listening, urging managers to support employees' professional goals and address potential challenges. Engaging in meaningful dialogue, leaders can create a more supportive and productive work environment, ultimately enhancing employee satisfaction and retention.
Is Trump's Campaign Against DEI Programs a Battle Against Progress?
Reuters | Fast Company | January 22, 2025
In a controversial move, President Donald Trump has intensified his campaign against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. His recent executive orders aim to dissuade private companies with government contracts from implementing DEI initiatives. This push includes placing government employees involved in administering DEI programs on paid leave and revoking several executive orders related to equal employment opportunities, some dating back to 1965. These orders, originally designed to protect workers from discrimination based on race, gender, and religion, are now being targeted as Trump argues that they encourage "illegal DEI discrimination and preferences." The order mandates federal agencies to identify companies potentially subject to civil investigations, signaling a broader crackdown on corporate DEI efforts. Civil rights advocates warn that dismantling DEI initiatives could undermine efforts to address systemic inequalities and long-standing racial biases.
Is Europe's Leadership on the Brink Due to Rising Stress and Burnout?
HRNews | January 23, 2025
In a startling revelation, the recent DDI Europe Leadership Report 2025 highlights a looming crisis within European leadership due to stress and burnout. The study, encompassing insights from 428 leaders and 250 HR professionals across more than 18 countries, underscores a significant skills gap in leadership development. 80% of HR organizations anticipate a surge in the demand for new leadership capabilities over the next five years. However, only 22% have made addressing critical skill gaps a priority. The report indicates that only a small fraction of leaders have received essential training in strategy setting, employee engagement, talent development, and decision-making. A staggering 54% of leaders report increased stress since assuming their roles, with 72% fearing burnout. The findings point to an urgent need for targeted skill development and time management to bolster leadership resilience and ensure sustainable organizational success across Europe.
How Are Geopolitical Tensions, Climate Change, and Inequalities Shaping Global Labour Markets in 2025?
The Future of Work Podcast | International Labour Organization
As world leaders convene at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has released its *World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2025* report, highlighting persistent stagnation in global labor markets. Despite a steady global unemployment rate of 5%, underlying disparities continue to plague low-income countries, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, climate change, and structural economic barriers. Key findings reveal that real wages remain stagnant in most regions, while youth unemployment rates surpass 12%, disproportionately affecting developing economies. The report also warns that rising climate costs and trade barriers are undermining recovery efforts, with young workers particularly at risk of falling into a "negative loop" of inactivity and poverty. As discussions in Davos unfold, the ILO calls for decisive action to address these urgent issues and steer towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.