Nearly two-thirds of executives are concerned about shifting dynamics in the global workforce as companies face economic pressures, talent shortages and artificial intelligence integration, according to new research.
The 2025 World at Work Report from G-P found that 64% of executives worry about workplace changes, while 65% of employees fear losing their jobs due to economic factors, the company said. Employee concerns were highest in Singapore at 85% and the United States at 70%.
“The global business landscape is in constant flux, and our research confirms businesses and employees alike are feeling the pressure,” said Nat Natarajan, chief product and strategy officer at G-P.
Talent shortages persist across markets
The survey of 6,000 executives and professionals across six global markets found that 84% of executives report difficulties finding skilled talent in their regions, according to G-P.
Despite economic uncertainty, many employees are considering job changes. The research showed 52% of workers globally are either actively searching or likely to search for new positions within six months.
International mobility remains attractive to workers, with 62% of employees willing to relocate to another country within the next year if their employer offered the opportunity. That figure rises to 71% among millennial workers, the company said.
Power dynamics favour employers
Most executives (59%) and employees (74%) believe employers hold the advantage in today’s job market, according to the report. However, employee expectations for compensation remain high.
The research found that 68% of workers said a guaranteed annual raise above cost-of-living adjustments would keep them with their organization for the next four years.
AI reshaping hiring priorities
While artificial intelligence and automation are changing workplace dynamics, most companies are not replacing human workers on a large scale, G-P said. Only 16% of executives reported automating aggressively enough to make human roles optional, while 11% are focusing on human talent as their primary competitive advantage.
Leadership requirements are evolving alongside technology adoption. The survey found that 59% of executives now prioritize AI expertise over years of functional experience when hiring for senior positions.
Companies adapting to disruption
G-P, which provides global employment services, commissioned the research to examine how organizations are responding to workforce changes. The Boston-based company serves clients in more than 180 countries through its employer-of-record and contractor management platform.
Natarajan said companies must build resilience and embrace flexibility to succeed. “Success today isn’t just about adapting, it’s about proactively building resilience and embracing agility,” he said.
