The EX Brief: The High Cost of Overconfidence & The Power of Hope

Inside This Issue:

Is it just us, or is Q4 already moving at a dizzying pace?

Between finalizing 2025 budgets and navigating the constant buzz of AI, it's easy for the core "human" part of our work to take a backseat.

But two stark reminders landed on our desk this week. First, a new report reveals a major gap between HR's confidence in international compliance and the reality, a misstep that could carry a serious financial sting.

Second, we're seeing a fresh warning about the AI skills bottleneck threatening to derail digital transformation before it even starts. It’s a potent mix of human risk and technological ambition.

In the midst of it all, we're doubling down on the one thing that can steer us through: a culture built on genuine human connection and inspiration.

Featured Insights:

The Human Element: Robert Ordever on Why Inspiration and Hope Are Key to Culture

Forget the free snacks and ping-pong tables. As Robert Ordever argues, a truly resilient culture is built on something far more profound: inspiration and hope.

In this candid conversation, he unpacks why these often-overlooked elements are the secret sauce for fostering belonging, boosting performance, and future-proofing your organization in an era of constant change.

This is a must-read for anyone looking to move beyond transactional perks.

Read the full article.

The High Cost of Confidence: HR Leaders Overestimate International Compliance

Think your global mobility and payroll practices are compliant?

New data suggests you might be overconfident. A startling report indicates that many HR leaders are underestimating the complexities of international employment law, facing an average of $42,000 in potential fines.

We dive into the most common blind spots and the critical steps you need to take to protect your organization from costly legal and financial exposure.

Read the full article.

Fresh off the Press

Stay current with key headlines and announcements from across the industry.

• Digital Transformation Doomed? A new study highlights a critical AI skills bottleneck that risks major UK economic growth, signalling an urgent need for upskilling.

• The UK's Green Credibility Gap Research reveals a significant trust gap, with employee belief in their company's sustainability ambitions trailing far behind HR's.

From Our Vault

The Hidden Cost of Outdated Expense Processes

Remember when we dug into the true impact of clunky systems on employee morale? Our conversation with Alex Mifsud on the hidden costs of outdated expense processes is more relevant than ever as we scrutinize operational friction.

Read the full article.

The Extra Point

As we head into a season often packed with planning and pressure, here’s a timely reminder: Don't let the relentless focus on "productivity" eclipse "energy."

An exhausted, burned-out team cannot innovate, no matter how perfect your 2025 strategy looks on paper. Check in. Listen.

Sometimes the most strategic move is to actively encourage a real break. Your future Q1 self will thank you.