The Shadow AI Dilemma + Building Workplace Attachment

Inside This Issue:

We're halfway through August, and if you're like most EX leaders right now, you're probably juggling return-to-office conversations, preparing for Q4 planning, and maybe wondering why that one team member keeps acting oddly around authority figures. Well, today's newsletter might have some answers for you.

This week, we're diving deep into two fascinating workplace dynamics that are shaping employee experience right now: the "shadow AI" phenomenon where over a third of your workforce is secretly using AI tools (spoiler: they're afraid you'll think they're cheating), and how attachment theory might just be the missing piece in understanding those puzzling team behaviors.

Plus, we've got updates on the UK's new NDA legislation and the cultural shift toward pay transparency that's picking up serious momentum.

Featured Insights:

Workers are using AI, but they don’t want to tell their bosses

Here's a stat that should make every EX leader pause: 60% of your employees are using AI tools, but 36% are keeping it secret. They're worried about appearing lazy or incompetent, while you're probably wondering why productivity metrics look different lately.

Read the full article.

Enhancing Workplace Relationships with Attachment Theory

Mental health expert Noel McDermott breaks down how those "odd behaviors" in your teams might actually be attachment patterns in action. From employees who undermine themselves around authority to the colleague relationships that somehow create drama, attachment theory offers a framework that could transform how you build psychological safety. The best part? Insecure attachment patterns can actually be repaired through healthy work environments, no therapy required.

Read the full article.

Fresh off the Press

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

• New UK legislation on NDAs and data protection

• Cultural Shift on Pay Transparency Driving Employer Adoption, says WTW

From Our Vault

Noel McDermott's earlier piece on stress management techniques remains one of our most-referenced resources, offering practical frameworks that complement today's attachment theory insights perfectly.

Read the complete guide.

The Extra Point

Policy Vacuum Alert: If your organization doesn't have clear AI guidelines yet, you're not alone, but you're also sitting on untapped potential. The data shows that 72% of AI-using employees feel more productive, yet only 22% of employers offer AI training. Consider this your gentle nudge to start that conversation before your best talent starts looking elsewhere for it.