Prioritising communication and employee well-being
As organisations navigate an evolving workplace landscape, one trend is becoming increasingly clear: prioritising communication and employee well-being is no longer optional—it’s a business imperative. The 2025 Workplace Trends Report by Arbinger Institute highlights the critical role that human-centric leadership, open communication, and mental health initiatives play in driving both employee satisfaction and business success.
The growing importance of communication and connection
Effective communication remains one of the biggest challenges in today’s workplace. According to the report, 32% of organisations cite poor communication and collaboration as significant obstacles to success. This disconnect between leadership and employees often leads to lower morale, disengagement, and high turnover—issues that can severely impact productivity and innovation.
In fact, the report underscores a concerning leadership gap: while executives often focus on professional development as a way to improve business outcomes, managers and employees on the ground cite low morale and engagement (37%) as more pressing concerns. Addressing this requires a shift toward more transparent communication, regular feedback loops, and leadership that actively listens and responds to employee needs.
The link between well-being and business performance
Employee well-being is another crucial factor shaping the workplace in 2025. Organisations that prioritise mental health and wellness see measurable improvements in engagement and retention. The report reveals that 84% of companies believe they are taking adequate steps to address employee wellness and mental health, a significant jump from 77% in the previous year. However, a 29% perception gap exists between executives and non-supervisory employees on whether these efforts are truly effective.
This disparity highlights the need for organisations to not only implement well-being initiatives but also ensure they are reaching employees in meaningful ways. Providing mental health resources, flexible work policies, and a culture of psychological safety are essential for creating a workplace where employees feel valued and supported.
Bridging the people gap with soft skills development
One of the most impactful ways organisations can address these challenges is by investing in soft skills training. The 2025 Workplace Trends Report found that 82% of organisations actively support soft skills development, including communication and collaboration, recognising that these abilities are essential for fostering strong teams and a connected workforce.
More importantly, companies that invest in these areas are seeing direct business benefits. The report reveals a strong correlation between soft skills training and significant revenue growth, reinforcing the idea that employee well-being and communication are not just HR priorities but key drivers of long-term business success.
What organisations Should do next
To stay competitive in 2025 and beyond, organisations—especially larger ones—must take proactive steps to embed communication and well-being into their workplace strategies:
- Prioritise Transparent Communication – Regular town halls, open-door policies, and real-time feedback mechanisms can help bridge the gap between leadership and employees.
- Invest in Employee Well-Being – Go beyond basic wellness programs by incorporating flexible work options, mental health support, and initiatives that promote psychological safety.
- Strengthen Soft Skills Development – Provide training in communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence to help employees and leaders build stronger relationships.
- Address Leadership Disconnects – Ensure that executive strategies align with the day-to-day experiences of employees by fostering an open and inclusive workplace culture.
By making communication and well-being a priority, organisations can create a more engaged workforce, drive better business outcomes, and build a workplace that thrives in the future of work.
