2019 Edelman Trust Barometer: Trust at Work

Summary

The 2019 landscape of trust is shifting dramatically, moving from traditional top-down structures to peer-to-peer networks, and now increasingly centering on employers. With global trust in institutions declining, people rely on those closest to them, especially their employers, who now command 75% trust. This shift reflects a desire for meaningful engagement, transparent communication, and a sense of purpose at work. Employees want companies that uphold values, foster open dialogue, empower their voices, and contribute positively to society. Trust is no longer just about having a job; it is about being part of a mission to improve communities and make a tangible impact in the world.

Takeaways

• 🔝 Trust has evolved over time: from top-down institutional trust to peer-to-peer and now to local and employer-focused trust.
• 🏢 In 2019, employers have become the primary source of trust, with 75% of people globally trusting their employer.
• 🌐 Declining trust in traditional institutions is driven by dissatisfaction with systems, fears of job loss, automation, and globalization.
• 📰 Engagement with mainstream news has surged, showing people’s desire to be informed and empowered.
• 🤝 Employees seek a new contract with employers that goes beyond just having a job.
• 💡 People want to work for companies with strong values and a clear purpose that address societal needs.
• 🗣️ Employees expect to be empowered, informed, and able to voice their opinions while feeling heard.
• 👔 CEOs are now expected to advocate for their employees, speaking up on issues like diversity and sustainability.
• 🏙️ Employees value companies that contribute positively to their local communities, such as improving education and infrastructure.
• 🌍 The modern trust relationship is about being part of a larger mission or movement to improve the world.

Q & A

How has the concept of trust evolved over the past decade?

Trust has shifted from a top-down, vertical model to a peer-to-peer, horizontal approach through social platforms, and now increasingly focuses on local and personal relationships.

Why is employer trust becoming increasingly significant in 2019?

Employer trust has risen to 75% globally due to widespread dissatisfaction with other institutions and fears about job security caused by automation and globalization.

What does the rise in trust toward employers indicate about societal trends?

It indicates that people are seeking reliability and closeness in institutions they can directly engage with, such as their employer, especially during times of systemic uncertainty.

How has engagement with mainstream media changed recently?

There has been a 22-point jump in engagement with mainstream news, showing that people deeply want to be informed and empowered.

What are the four main expectations employees have from their employers today?

Employees expect purposeful work aligned with societal needs, empowerment and a platform to be heard, active leadership advocacy from CEOs, and tangible contributions to their local community.

Why do employees want CEOs to speak up on issues like diversity and sustainability?

Employees want visible leadership advocacy to feel supported and to see their company actively addressing societal challenges.

What does the emphasis on community impact reflect about modern employees’ values?

It reflects a desire to contribute to positive change in their local environment, such as improving education, infrastructure, and overall quality of life, beyond just having a job.

How has the role of the employer changed in the trust ecosystem?

The employer has become a central and trusted institution for individuals, bridging gaps left by declining trust in government, media, and other traditional institutions.

Why is employee engagement with company values and purpose increasingly important?

Employees want to feel part of a larger mission or movement that addresses societal needs, making their work more meaningful and aligned with personal values.

What broader societal concerns are driving the shift in trust towards employers?

Concerns include fear of job loss due to automation and globalization, dissatisfaction with systemic inefficiencies, and a desire for closer, more trustworthy relationships.