When we recently launched the People-First IC movement, we were calling for a shift: from internal communication that delivers information to communication that builds human connection, champions empathy, and designs around real employee experience.
And it’s great to see that this year’s IC Index 2025 backs this up, not just in spirit, but with data. It clearly shows that the organisations getting IC right are those already leaning into the values we’ve been advocating: human-centred design, authentic leadership, listening that leads to action, and empathy as a core skill.
What we’re calling for is a redefinition of IC as a human-centred practice and this report evidences that the future of our profession depends on it. Here are some of the key take-aways from the index we wanted to share:
- Connection & care = The new gold standard
The report reveals that employees who rate their internal comms a 10/10 don’t mention flashy channels or big announcements – they talk about empathy, approachability, and authentic interactions.
Employees in this top group are 93% more likely to say leaders understand their challenges and 50% more likely to hear from them regularly.
If IC professionals want to future-proof their role, the emphasis must shift from outputs to genuine connection.Employees now expect consumer-grade experiences, authentic connection, and personalised communication which is at the heart of the people-first IC movement
- Empathy and authenticity = the real work of leadership
The IC Index confirms that empathy isn’t soft, it’s strategic. When leaders are described as “authentic,” “caring,” or “approachable,” trust skyrockets. But only 51% of employees believe their leaders truly understand them. This empathy gap is one we’re trained to close.
That’s why People-First IC puts human strengths at the centre of our capability model. Empathy isn’t just a trait, it’s a tool. And IC pros are uniquely placed to coach leaders toward more real, resonant communication.
- Listening Isn’t Enough — We Have to Close the Loop
The Index reveals something powerful: trust and advocacy go up 47 points when organisations both listen and act on what employees share.
That’s the essence of People-First design: we don’t stop at surveys or town halls – we help build systems where employee voice informs decisions. Feedback isn’t a one-time ask; it’s a continuous loop. This is where IC becomes a driver of culture and change – not just a messenger. When we design around what people really need and involve them in the process – we show them they’ve been heard.
- AI Is here — But human skills matter more than ever
The IC Index flags uncertainty around AI, but also shows that clarity builds comfort. And when AI is paired with empathy, trust grows.
Our People-First framework champions AI-augmented practice – using tech to free up time, not remove the human layer. As operational tasks shift to machines, the communicators who will thrive are those who lean into creativity, coaching, and emotional intelligence. AI won’t replace IC pros, but those who fail to embrace human-centred design will struggle.
- Human tone = trust, and that starts with you
Whether it’s CEOs sounding “scripted” or managers feeling confident but disconnected, the report shows a clear theme: people want leaders who are real.
This is where we step in — not just as advisors, but as storytellers and trust-builders. By helping leaders develop their tone, share lived experiences, and be vulnerable, we bring humanity back into the system. This is our moment: influence with integrity, communicate with care, and be the human voice in the room.
From movement to mandate
The IC Index 2025 shows that organisations embracing empathy, listening, and connection aren’t just doing the right thing – they’re getting better outcomes.
People-First IC is no longer a nice-to-have. It’s the blueprint for relevance, resilience, and real impact.
So, what’s your next move?
Will you react to change — or lead the transformation?
Join the movement
