The central theme— Redefining How Organisations Connect With Their Employees —set the tone for a day rich in insight, inspiration, and, at times, uncomfortable truths. Across six expertly curated stages, a stellar lineup of speakers explored the tension and opportunity that exists at the intersection of technological acceleration and human engagement.  

Despite the plethora of tech solutions showcased in the glitzy exhibition area, the event fundamentally centred on people. A consistent emphasis was placed on the elements that truly engage individuals: culture, purpose, values, authenticity, storytelling, listening, and wellbeing.  

A recurring theme was the potential of AI to enhance engagement—from personalised employee journeys to predictive analytics that uncover hidden trends. Numerous tech solutions promised these capabilities. However, a crucial and ever-present caveat emerged: technology is a tool, not the solution.  

This sentiment was echoed by Nikki Humphrey, Chief People Officer at Virgin Group, who stated: “AI can help us be more efficient—but only people can make work more meaningful.”  

Our co-founders, Emma Bridger and Lee Smith, are currently exploring this interplay between technology and humanity in their upcoming Kogan Page book, People-First Internal Communication. They argue that now, more than ever, we need to double down on what it really means to be human – embrace the efficiency that AI promises, but focus on empathy.  

AI can scale and expedite engagement efforts, but it cannot replace the relational foundations of connection, culture, and care. Striking the right balance—combining intelligent automation with intentional humanity and deep human strengths—has emerged as a critical capability for the future.  

If one idea resonated above all, it’s that successful engagement now hinges on leadership that listens, learns, and leans in. Empathy, vulnerability, and authenticity were hailed not as soft skills, but as vital human power skills—fundamental to building inclusive, resilient, and high-performing cultures.  

With hybrid work now standard for many, internal communication was framed as both a critical enabler and an evolving professional discipline. Listening to the IC-focused speakers, it was clear that the focus is gradually shifting from broadcasting updates to building community, driving dialogue and connection, and amplifying employee voice. After years of talking about it, it seems the shift is finally happening.  

Innovations in multichannel delivery, personalisation, and AI-powered insights were showcased, but the human element remained reassuringly centre stage: relevance, trust, and meaning are what turn information into engagement. The role of internal communicators in enabling human connection is more vital than ever.  

The event also underscored the need to move beyond 'hygiene factors' and focus on making work more human. Sessions on recognition highlighted how outdated, one-size-fits-all schemes fail to deliver real impact. Employees today expect rewards that are personalised, timely, and aligned with their values.  

Several case studies demonstrated how tailoring recognition to what matters most to individuals—whether that’s public praise, meaningful perks, or purpose-driven contributions—can dramatically boost engagement and retention. And that means knowing what makes individuals tick.  

Leaving the event after a full-on day, we were left with a strong sense that, as technological change intensifies, people still matter. As Des Mhere, Global Chief People Officer at the British Army, aptly noted: “You can automate feedback, but you can’t automate trust.”  The bottom line? Augment, don’t abandon, the human element.  

Yes, AI and automation are here to stay—and they offer incredible opportunities to free up time, surface insights, and enhance the employee journey. But engagement can’t be downloaded. Trust can’t be programmed. And culture can’t be copied and pasted.  

As we look ahead, the most successful organisations will be those that blend technological intelligence with emotional intelligence—creating workplaces where people feel heard, valued, and inspired to thrive.