As we reach the halfway point of 2025, the workplace continues to evolve at pace. From AI teammates to ongoing organisational transformation, the only constant is change. According to behavioural scientists and coaching experts at CoachHub, the leading global digital coaching platform, leaders must double down on adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a proactive approach to skill development to keep employees engaged and businesses moving forward.

Here are four mid-year trends shaping the world of work:

1. AI colleagues are officially here – and they’re part of the team

Whether it’s an AI coach or a smart assistant embedded in daily workflows, AI has moved from hype to business-critical. Employees are increasingly working with AI, not just alongside it. The challenge now is helping people integrate these tools into their routines and see them as collaborators, rather than technology that will displace them. 

“AI is becoming a core member of many teams. But just like any teammate, employees need time, training and trust to work with them effectively,” says Hilary Aylesworth, Chief Product and Technology Officer at CoachHub. 

2. Embracing continual change as the new normal

From geopolitical tension to economic uncertainty and rapid technological advances, transformation is now a permanent fixture in the workplace. This is driving a need for businesses to be nimbler in their workforce strategies and for employees to be supported through ongoing, sometimes overwhelming, shifts.

“Change used to come in waves. Now it’s a constant undercurrent,” says Mat Piaggi, Behavioural Scientist at CoachHub. “Organisations must invest in resilience, flexibility and upskilling as default – not one-offs.”

3. Resilient, emotionally intelligent leadership is more vital than ever

The pressures on leaders continue to grow – they are expected to deliver on strategy, wellbeing, inclusion, and now, AI transformation. The leaders who succeed will be those who prioritise emotional intelligence (EQ) and empathy, and importantly, do it with authenticity.

“In times of constant flux, people don’t just want direction – they want to feel seen and supported. EQ is no longer just a niche skill.  It is front and centre of what makes good and effective leadership,” says Sarah Henson, Senior Behavioural Scientist at CoachHub.

4. The need to ‘un-learn’ to thrive in complexity

Information overload and constant change are making some traditional ways of working obsolete. The most effective teams are learning to unlearn – letting go of outdated processes, simplifying where possible, and embracing new thinking.

“When we strip away unnecessary complexity, we give people space to focus, reflect and perform,” says Mat Piaggi. “In workplaces that often focus on adding more; more skills, more content, more initiatives, we also need to consider what we can let go of. This is where unlearning becomes important: asking ourselves what no longer serves us.”