I had a great time yesterday at the CIPD Festival of Work 2026. The only downside was only being able to be in one place at a time – within the vast expanse of the ExCel London - meaning it was impossible to avoid the FOMO when you saw all the interesting topics on the agenda.
Anyway, here are my top 5 overriding takeaways from the talks I saw…
There’s a huge amount of uncertainty in the world of work right now, and most teams are being asked to cut costs.
Adaptability is now a core workplace skill: employees need the confidence to pivot, reskill and recognise the value of what they already bring – not to mention the grit and mental fitness to be able to navigate huge changes.
Much discussion is going on about how to reimagine the talent pipeline for young people coming into the workforce, when AI is decimating the entry level jobs: and very few answers seem to have been found so far.
The most valued leadership qualities in the age of AI are a willingness to be comfortable with uncertainty, to be able to course correct and the ability to build authentic human relationships through vulnerability and empathy.
Embracing neurodivergent talent is an opportunity that many are missing and that could improve revenue, retention and help employers bring diverse ideas and perspectives into their organisations.
A brilliantly inspiring day out in London, topped off by a fun IRL meet-up with fellow members of the Career Coach Circle in Granary Square – a generous sharing of ideas for business development, coaching tools and marketing.
Coaches and HR folk are such a lovely bunch!