Employee activism is on the rise, with 59% of employers anticipating further increases.
- The escalating cost of living highlights the need for businesses to address pay concerns.
- Sustainability has become crucial, impacting employee retention and attraction.
- Automation poses a threat to job security, necessitating a balanced approach.
- Equality, diversity, and discrimination remain top priorities to spur engagement.
Employee activism is increasingly shaping workplace dynamics across the UK. More organisations now recognise the necessity of responding empathetically to issues that are significant to their workforce. A recent survey indicates that 59% of employers predict a rise in employee activism, driven by key concerns such as cost of living, sustainability, technology, and equality.
The cost of living in the UK remains a pressing concern as inflation outpaces wage growth. The Consumer Prices Index reports a 3.4% increase in consumer prices, contrasting with anticipated declines in wage increases. This disparity is likely to catalyse activism, urging businesses to offer competitive salaries to retain top talent.
As sustainability gains precedence, employees increasingly expect their employers to prioritise environmental and social governance (ESG). A study by KPMG found that one in five UK workers would reject a job at a company with poor ESG credentials. To attract and keep staff, businesses must invest in energy-efficient practices and eco-friendly products. Initiatives like cycle-to-work schemes, championed by industry figures such as Ben Mercer, exemplify proactive sustainability commitments.
The advance of automation and AI introduces uncertainty in job security, with the potential for up to eight million jobs in the UK to be affected. Employers must integrate new technologies thoughtfully, underscoring the irreplaceable value of human input. Encouraging the use of AI as a tool rather than a replacement can help alleviate fears and enhance productivity.
Addressing equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) is essential to prevent increased activism. Research indicates that diverse and inclusive companies perform better financially, improving outcomes by up to 27% according to McKinsey. Ensuring support for various social and mental health needs is crucial in fostering an empathetic and accommodating workplace culture.
Responding empathetically to these pivotal issues not only addresses employee activism but also enhances organisational resilience and reputation.
