Most organizations fail to clearly communicate the purpose and design of their reward programs to employees, according to a global survey conducted by consulting firm Korn Ferry.
The survey found only 24 per cent of organizations clearly explain their reward programs, despite growing pressure for pay transparency and changing workforce expectations.
Korn Ferry’s Global Total Rewards Pulse Survey gathered responses from nearly 8,000 organizations across more than 140 countries in October 2025. The survey examined total rewards strategies, benefits and salary benchmarking practices.
Pay transparency drivers
Sixty-five per cent of organizations identified pay transparency as a key driver of change over the next two years, according to the survey results. Emerging regulations are pushing organizations to increase transparency in compensation.
Skills-based and performance-based pay models are expected to gain traction over the next three to five years, the survey found.
Organizations see potential for artificial intelligence to improve transparency and pay equity, but HR readiness remains limited and employees are cautious about AI use in compensation decisions, according to Korn Ferry.
Business outlook
Most companies anticipate moderate growth in 2026, consistent with findings from mid-2025. The majority of survey participants expect bonuses comparable to or above target this fiscal year.
The survey provides benchmarks for organizations designing and updating total rewards packages, including peer forecasts on 2026 salary increases and global trends in rewards approaches.
Korn Ferry is a management consulting firm that provides organizational consulting, executive search and talent management services.
