Social and Workforce Trends for 2026 and Beyond
This post was originally written by Marc Emmer for Vistage Research Center.
In Part I of our series, we focus on social and workforce trends facing Vistage members in 2026 and beyond. Use this series to consider external forces for your strategic planning process, so your team can make fact-based decisions.
Headed into 2026, business leaders face an ever-shifting social landscape. COVID-19 wasn’t just a one-time event; its impact led to several structural changes to our society.
Patterns have changed, from where we live to how we work and what we consume. Below, we dive into the key trends likely to shape 2026 and beyond — from a stubborn employee engagement slump to frugal consumers and fluid brand loyalties, with an eye on how each might factor into corporate strategy.
The Strategy Experts
Marc Emmer is President and Chief Strategist & Facilitator at Optimize Inc.
He is an author, speaker and consultant recognized as a thought leader throughout North America as an expert in strategic planning.
