State of the Global Workplace 2025 - Implications and Recommendations for the UK
- Ian Kirkby
- May 21
- 2 min read
The 2025 Gallup Global Workplace Report* highlights significant challenges facing the global workforce and includes worrying figures for the UK. The report identifies declining global employee engagement (21%) and manager engagement (27%), leading to weakened productivity and workplace morale. This disengagement threatens business resilience and economic stability, with the UK experiencing a very low engagement score of <10%.
The report also reveals a growing disconnect between leaders and employees, aggravated by post-pandemic workforce restructuring, digital transformation, and the rise of AI. UK managers face increased expectations while lacking adequate training and support, contributing to heightened stress and burnout. The data suggests that female and younger managers have experienced the most significant declines in engagement and well-being.
Implications for the UK Workforce
Productivity & Economic Growth – The decline in engagement risks billions in lost productivity. Businesses failing to address disengagement could see decreased revenue and a weaker competitive edge.
AI Disruption & Workforce Readiness – AI adoption is accelerating, but many UK employees and managers lack confidence in adapting to it. Without proper AI training, organisations risk falling behind in innovation.
Manager Burnout & Retention Issues – Increased pressures on UK managers without sufficient resources are leading to high stress and turnover rates, impacting overall team performance and well-being.
Changing Employee Expectations – Workers seek more flexibility, development opportunities, and better management, particularly in remote/hybrid settings. Businesses must adapt to attract and retain talent.
Recommendations for the UK
Invest in Manager Development – Prioritise structured leadership training to improve engagement and reduce burnout. A lack of such investment was highlighted in the report as a cause of poor team morale.
Embrace AI with Workforce Training – Provide clear AI upskilling programmes to ensure employees feel confident and prepared.
Strengthen Employee Wellbeing Initiatives – Implement mental health support, flexible work models, and mentorship programmes.
Encourage Workplace Collaboration & Engagement – Foster open communication, clear career pathways, and recognition initiatives. A growing number of workers reported feeling isolated and disengaged, especially in hybrid work environments
However, with proactive leadership, the UK can turn these challenges into opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and improved workforce satisfaction.
If you want your business to buck the trend and realise a source of sustainable and powerful competitive advantage by developing leadership skills and team engagement, get in touch today!
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