This episode, we're talking with Christina Chau, Senior Content Manager at O.C. Tanner, about what employees really want from their workplaces in 2026.

We unpack Christina’s process for gathering industry research and insights to determine the top five workplace culture trends for the coming year, find out what surprised her, and answer some burning questions from HR leaders and practitioners like you.

Stick around for the end of the episode where we’ll talk about the ideas and actions you can take with you and implement at your own workplace.

A research analyst with nearly 20 years’ experience, Christina uncovers employee perspectives and writes about the trends, insights, and best practices that create workplace cultures where people thrive. She uses her background in conducting and publishing primary research to tap into what the data says and why it matters to modern leaders.

Takeaways:

1. Human connection is so important. There is great tech out there that can enrich both connection and appreciation at work, but don’t let it replace genuine, authentic, human moments. Use AI responsibly in your culture initiatives.
2. Employees are asking for a lot from their workplaces now. They want inspiration from their teams, leaders, and employers; they want time to connect and time to recognize each other. Make sure to prioritize and encourage these experiences in 2026.
3. Go read or watch Christina’s 5 Workplace Culture Trends for 2026 content for more insights and actionable takeaways to implement at your organization this year.

The Culture by Design podcast is created by O.C. Tanner, the global leader in software and services that improve workplace culture through meaningful employee recognition.

If you want your organization to become a place where people can’t wait to come to work in the morning, go to octanner.com.

This new podcast series from O.C. Tanner explores the research, practices, and strategies that help create thriving workplace cultures around the world.

If you're an HR leader, manager, or just passionate about building better workplaces, this is for you! Each month, you'll hear from our researchers, strategists, and global teams, and walk away with practical strategies to implement in your organization.

At O.C. Tanner, we know that a thriving workplace culture doesn't happen by accident—it’s by design. Join us as we uncover what makes workplaces truly great.

Follow along at octanner.com, or wherever you get your podcasts, and subscribe so you never miss an episode

This episode, we’re talking with Luvvie Ajayi Jones about the power and pitfalls of stirring the pot in a professional setting. She sheds light on how she assumed her current title as “professional troublemaker” and how stifling dissent in the workplace can be the death of innovation.

The Work Place is sponsored by O.C. Tanner, the global leader in engaging workplace cultures. O.C. Tanner’s Culture Cloud™️ provides a single, modular platform for influencing and improving employee experiences through recognition, career anniversaries, leadership, and more.

If you want your organization to become a place where people can’t wait to come to work in the morning, go to octanner.com.