Future of work: 12 employment and remuneration trends to monitor in 2026
As 2026 approaches, organisations need to be proactive in understanding and responding to these critical trends. The future of work is undeniably linked to how well companies adapt their strategies and values, ensuring they not only survive but thrive in a rapidly evolving environment.
Image: Pexels / Olia Danilevich
As the landscape of employment and remuneration continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, organisations must stay vigilant to seize opportunities and mitigate challenges ahead.
The South African Reward Association (SARA) gathered leading experts and industry professionals at its annual conference, held from October 30-31, 2025, at the Wanderers Club in Gauteng.
Among the highlights was a compelling presentation by executive committee member Dr Mark Bussin, who outlined 12 trends he anticipates will redefine the workplace by 2026.
1. More entrepreneurs:
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) within organisations is fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Dr Bussin predicts that the growing demand for specialised products and services will usher in a wave of new market entrants, thereby accelerating the entrepreneurial spirit across South Africa.
2. Moonshot pay:
Inspired by tenacious entrepreneurs like Elon Musk, he forecasts a rise in “moonshot” compensation strategies aimed at achieving ambitious and high-risk targets.
These initiatives promise substantial rewards for CEOs who succeed within their set timelines, stirring both excitement and caution among remuneration experts.
3. Promotions belong to data slicers:
With data generation at an all-time high, the ability to extract valuable insights will be vital.
Dr Bussin emphasises that professionals adept at navigating through vast datasets, spurred on by AI, will command significant reward packages as organisations seek out this rare and valuable skill set.
4. Digital detox:
As employees are expected to engage with technology more than ever during work hours, a counter-trend is emerging in their personal lives.
The pursuit of digital detoxification will see individuals prioritising reduced screen time outside of work, urging organisations to honour this need for balance in their reward structures.
5. The iceberg of ignorance melts:
Organisational leadership often lacks insight into the underlying issues that affect performance.
Dr Bussin predicts that enhanced analytical tools will equip leaders by 2026 with the ability to delve deeper into problems, fostering informed decision-making and facilitating effective reward systems.
6. No toxic leaders:
The trend of ousting toxic leadership is gaining traction as companies recognise the detrimental effects of coercive management.
Dr Bussin notes that smaller firms will follow the lead of top multinational corporations by embracing leaders who motivate and inspire, marking a tectonic shift in workplace culture.
7. Unemployment ravages the globe:
A grim reality looms as corporate downsizing to fund AI investments threatens job security globally.
With rising unemployment affecting various regions, Dr Bussin warns that economic pressures can have particularly dire consequences for the upcoming workforce.
8. Conscious unbossing:
Gen Z and Millennials are showing reluctance to take on traditional leadership roles, favouring paths focused on personal growth and self-management.
To thrive in this new era, organisations will need thoughtful succession plans that accommodate the shifting dynamics of leadership.
9. Radical changes in education and parenting:
As AI transforms corporate culture, so too will educational systems and parenting approaches.
Dr Bussin insists that these societal shifts must be acknowledged by employers who will soon be interacting with a generation shaped by these new norms.
10. C-suite clarity:
AI and analytics are set to revolutionise corporate leadership.
Dr Bussin anticipates that these advancements will foster cross-departmental collaboration, ultimately enhancing strategic decision-making and organisational efficacy.
11. You must know ChatCoGem:
Mastering multiple AI platforms—such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini—will become essential for employees wishing to remain competitive in a technology-driven job market.
Understanding these tools will be paramount for job security in 2026.
12. The world’s first trillionaire:
The race to declare the world’s first trillionaire is heating up.
The implications of this unprecedented wealth on executive compensation will likely ignite moral, ethical, and regulatory debates, shaping the business landscape for years to come.
Dr Bussin ties these trends together by emphasising the importance of a coherent total rewards strategy in navigating the anticipated challenges.
As the WorldatWork chief executive, Dr Scott Cawood, aptly stated during the conference, “If you want great performance in an organisation, focus on total rewards.”
A well-crafted incentive system, responsive to these changes, can lead to heightened productivity and motivation across the workforce.