Harvard Business Review LogoMay 20, 2026Silke Weinsheimer/Getty ImagesYour team is grinding. In an era of layoffs, geopolitical unrest, and AI-fueled uncertainty, the pressure to deliver leaves little room for anything else. Asking people to think about their career development on top of everything feels impossible.
Supporting Your Employees’ Career Growth When Everyone Is Overwhelmed
As economic pressure, geopolitical instability, and AI-driven disruption intensify, many employees struggle to prioritize career development amid demanding workloads. Leaders can help teams stay adaptable by shifting the focus from rigid career ladders to continuous learning and skill building. Development conversations should emphasize near-term opportunities, broad and transferable capabilities, and learning embedded into day-to-day work rather than treated as an extra task. Managers should also model curiosity and growth themselves, particularly around emerging technologies like AI. In uncertain environments, organizations build stronger, more resilient teams by encouraging adaptability, continuous learning, and career development that feels practical, relevant, and achievable.
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