"The way layoffs are communicated often carries as much weight as the decision itself," Dr. Jasmine Escalera, career expert at Zety, says.

When Forrester analysts ask clients preparing AI-related layoffs whether they have mature, vetted AI applications ready to fill those roles, the answer is almost always no.

HR compliance, particularly in terms of technology, has become too complex for most organizations to navigate alone.

Organizations that will thrive in 2026 won’t be those that merely adopt AI tools. Success will favor those who thoughtfully integrate human expertise, organizational strategy and AI capabilities.

From AI implementation to skills-based career paths to neurodiversity initiatives, the strategic moves that will separate talent magnets from talent deserts share a common thread: they put human growth at the center of technological transformation.

The 2025 workplace flexibility debate reached new intensity when President Trump’s federal return-to-office mandate on his first day back in office sent shockwaves through both public and private sectors.

For HR leaders facing pressure to reduce headcount, understanding what’s really driving cuts at other organizations provides critical context for those difficult conversations with leadership peers.

For HR leaders facing pressure to reduce headcount, understanding what’s really driving cuts at other organizations provides critical context for those difficult conversations with leadership peers.