The Future of EX: What Employees Expect Most in 2026
Work isn’t what it used to be, and neither are employees.The Sogolytics Experience Index: Employee Edition (EX) 2026 report from Sogolytics shows that today’s workforce wants more than paychecks and perks. They want fairness, flexibility, and follow-through.
Sogolytics surveyed 1,027 full-time employees across 12 industries to understand what makes work feel good and what doesn’t. The findings show employees are optimistic but cautious, tech-savvy but craving connection, and ready to see talk turn into action.
Listening Without Action
Here’s the hard truth: most people don’t believe their feedback changes anything. Only one in ten employees say their input always leads to action. The rest have learned not to expect much after hitting “submit.”
It’s not that organizations aren’t listening. They are. But collecting surveys without visible results is like nodding without speaking. Trust grows when leaders follow up, not just when they ask.
And transparency? Still work in progress. Almost half of executives say decisions are made openly, but barely any frontline staff agree. That’s not a communication gap; that’s a credibility gap.
The Value Disconnect
Most employees say they’re satisfied, but “fine” isn’t the same as “fulfilled.” Pay is still a big deal, with 45% saying they would leave for better compensation. But emotional value matters too. Nearly one in four would quit simply because they feel undervalued.
Flexibility, recognition, and respect have become the new must-haves. It’s not about free snacks or ping-pong tables anymore. It’s about being trusted to do your job well and live your life too.
Top drivers of employee turnover
Source: Sogolytics, The Sogolytics Experience Index: Employee Edition (EX) 2026. For the complete version, download the full report at sogolytics.com.
Technology with a Human Touch
Most employees say technology makes their day easier. Still, 38% want more human interaction, especially when it comes to recognition or collaboration. Efficiency is great, but it can’t replace empathy.
AI is another mixed bag. People appreciate the shortcuts but worry about what might get lost — creativity, connection, and maybe even job security. The challenge for leaders is to make sure automation doesn’t erase authenticity.
What It Means for EX Leaders
The future of employee experience isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing better. Employees want honesty, fairness, and real conversation. They want surveys that lead to change, leaders who keep their word, and technology that helps without taking over.
Great workplaces of 2026 won’t win people over with gimmicks. They’ll earn loyalty through trust, transparency, and action that matches intention.
Because in the end, employee experience isn’t built on policies or platforms. It’s built on people, and the promise that their voices actually matter.
