My 3 Big Predictions for Our Teams in 2026 and Beyond

Well hasn’t it been a season of change? What once felt like a gradual evolution now feels like a tidal wave of twists and turns when it comes to our teams. I know many business owners are feeling out of control, and uncertain of what’s coming next.

As we head into 2026, the pace of this change isn't slowing down, and if you lead a team, you need to be ready.

From the rise of AI to generational changes in the workforce, it’s clear we’re entering a new chapter. But not everything is changing. Some foundational truths remain as important as ever. Here's what I believe is coming, and how you can get ahead.

Prediction 1: AI Will Become Business-as-Usual (and Bring Growing Pains With It)

Whether you’ve dabbled in ChatGPT or are knee-deep in tech tools, there’s no denying that AI is here, and here to stay. But how we use it, and how our teams respond to it, is where the real challenge lies.

AI is being integrated into every tool we already use, from Microsoft Office to Canva and beyond. It’s no longer something we ‘go to’ separately, it’s part of our everyday systems. If it’s not already, you need to be looking at leveraging this, fast.

With this will come tension. The tension will come from two places. First, your team. Not everyone is excited or ready to embrace AI. Some may resist. Others will worry it’s coming for their job. And many will simply feel unsure or unskilled.

Second, the tension will come from you. You’ll need to set boundaries, manage risks, and decide how you want AI used in your business. That means getting clear on data, privacy, and expectations.

The skillset around AI will become essential. Not just in terms of technical know-how, but also in hiring, onboarding, and training. You’ll need to know what to look for, how to support it, and where to set the limits.

Ignoring it isn’t an option. The train has well and truly left the station. The businesses that lean in, get curious and manage the tension well will move ahead.

Prediction 2: Your People Will Crave More Connection, Not Less

As tech ramps up, there’s a growing need to balance it with something deeply human: connection.

You might assume that tech-savvy teams want more independence, more remote options, and more digital communication. But in practice, we’re seeing the opposite.

Team members, especially younger ones, are craving real, human connection. They want more time in the office, not full-time, but enough to connect. They want face-to-face meetings. They want to hear from their manager regularly, not just once a month. They want real-time feedback and interaction.

The challenge for leaders will be building engagement in a tech-driven world. Creating culture. Maintaining alignment. Checking in regularly.

Engagement matters more than ever. Highly engaged teams are more productive and more profitable. And while the methods may change, the need for meaningful leadership doesn’t.

Business owners who lean into connection, foster real conversations and create shared purpose will stand out. They’ll also see better results, because connection drives performance.

Prediction 3: Some Things Won’t Change — and That’s a Good Thing

Amidst all the change, some core truths still apply, and always will.

Past behaviour remains the best predictor of future behaviour. If you’re not doing reference checks or digging into someone’s patterns before hiring, you’re missing critical insight.

Great leadership is still non-negotiable. No technology will replace your role as a leader. It’s not about being the loudest or most confident. It’s about being consistent, supportive, and willing to grow.

Hiring well is as important as ever. And as cover letters and resumes become more AI-generated, your ability to spot red flags and ask the right questions will matter even more. Cynical hiring might just become your superpower.

And yes, some parts of managing people will always be tough. People will let you down. You’ll need to have hard conversations. Not every hire will work out. That won’t change in 2026. But your ability to handle those moments with clarity and confidence is what will set you apart.

What Comes Next?

If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that leadership is a moving target. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, the landscape shifts. But that’s not a reason to feel overwhelmed. It’s an invitation to stay curious, stay connected, and keep learning.

AI will keep evolving. Expectations will keep changing. But the leaders who stay grounded in the essentials, and open to the new, will thrive.

So as we move into 2026, ask yourself:

• Are you ready to manage the tension that comes with tech?
• Are you creating enough connection in your team?
• Are you still investing in your own leadership?

Because while the tools will change, your role as a leader, the human at the centre of it all, is more important than ever.

An Invitation
If you’d like to connect with other business owners, leaders and managers, I’d love for you to join us inside our free Facebook Group where you can connect with other like minded business owners, leaders and managers to discuss all things HR: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrsupportaustralia