CEOs Are Optimistic. Employees, Not So Much

The CEOs have spoken. According to multiple recent surveys, they think the business world is looking very rosy. But employees aren’t so sure. Many say they’re worried about AI, the chaotic employment market, and inflation. Korn Ferry’s experts have suggestions for leaders about how to talk to their skeptical workforces. Plus, we have advice on how to expand your professional network.

1) A Worried Workforce

Unemployment creeping higher. Mysterious drones flying around multiple US states. AI replacing people at work. The specter of higher inflation.

As 2025 draws near, employees are facing anxiety-inducing elements on multiple fronts. Surveys taken after the US election indicate that more than 30% of workers believe they have little or no job security and that 30% of them feel that their families are falling behind financially. Plus, after the recent shooting of a healthcare executive, some workers even worry they might be hounded on social media, or ostracized by neighbors, based on what industry or company they work for.

As we enter a New Year, it probably isn’t an ideal environment for leaders seeking to persuade employees to work efficiently, be creative, and push to meet goals. But experts say leadership shouldn’t dismiss these anxieties.

Read the full article here.

2) Briefings Podcast: Gen Z’s Management Misgivings

More than 70% of Gen Zers say they don’t want to be managers, but firms need them to eventually step up. Our experts dive into how to motivate the youngest workers into taking larger roles.

Watch the podcast here.

3) 5 Ways to Network, the Modern Way

Does just saying the word “networking” give you anxiety? It might conjure images of insincere people passing out business cards to strangers at an industry event, and for good reason. We’ve all been there.

Experts say that in reality, today’s “modern” networking is no longer like that. Instead, they say, networking is the important process of building true professional relationships—not collecting transactional contacts on the off chance they might help you get ahead someday.

And your professional network is extremely important. Indeed, with AI making it harder to break through when applying for job openings posted online, that network may be a lifeline for many job hunters. According to HubSpot, 85% of jobs are filled via networking. Here are some thoughts on now to build a valuable network of your own.

Read the full article here.

Other Must-Reads from Korn Ferry

• After the Shooting, a New Reality for Leaders - As firms race to boost security, experts worry whether “physical bravery” will become a requirement for leadership.
• Influencers… Losing Influence? - Social influencers’ power in business is on the wane as marketing tactics increasingly veer toward other advertising venues.
• Our Gifts of Grace - Even in tough business times, it’s the leader’s job to find an opening to inspire others, says Korn Ferry CEO Gary Burnison.

Check out Briefings, our bimonthly national magazine, for in-depth and unusual looks at critical leadership issues.