Talent Trends 2026: The Engagement Recession at Work

In this episode, we explore the Robert Walters Talent Trends 2026 report and the emerging concept of an “engagement recession”, where declining trust and motivation are replacing the earlier trend of quiet quitting. Economic uncertainty and rapid AI adoption are forcing organisations to rethink how they lead, with emotional intelligence, salary transparency and personalised management becoming essential for maintaining engagement. We also examine the rise of blended workforces, where permanent staff are combined with contractors and other flexible talent, alongside the growing challenge of AI-generated job applications flooding recruitment processes. The report also highlights “career cushioning”, where employees quietly prepare for future job moves, pushing leaders to strengthen succession planning and professional development pathways. Tune in to understand how organisations can balance technological efficiency with human-centred leadership in the evolving workplace of 2026.