Employee Relations in 2026: Risks, Reality, The Road Ahead

In this episode of DriveThruHR, hosts Robin Schooling and Michael VanDervort speak with Deb Muller, founder and CEO of HR Acuity, about the evolving landscape of employee relations as we approach 2026. The conversation covers key trends in employee relations, the impact of AI on HR functions, the importance of trust and risk management, and the mental health challenges faced by employee relations teams. Deb emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt to changing workplace dynamics, implement effective governance around AI, and prioritize employee well-being. The episode concludes with practical advice for smaller organizations and insights into the future of HR practices. Join the free empowER community here. Employee Relations resources here. Takeaways Employee relations is evolving with new challenges and complexities. Trust is essential for mitigating risk in organizations. AI is becoming an integral part of HR processes. Smaller organizations can implement fundamental ER practices without large teams. Mental health and burnout are significant concerns for ER teams. Data-driven approaches can help measure trust and risk effectively. Organizations need to create safe channels for employee feedback. The complexity of cases is increasing, requiring more strategic handling. Governance around AI is crucial for responsible implementation in HR. Investing in employee relations can lead to better organizational outcomes.