Why Workplace Security Isn't Optional in 2025
(And What Leaders Get Wrong About It)
The 2024 election outcome has left many leaders holding their breath. How will the Trump presidency impact the workplace? What will happen to healthcare coverage? Workplace accommodations? aLabor regulations? With so much uncertainty about what policies might change, we are all wondering what to expect—and more importantly, what to address first.
Here's what we know: When everything feels uncertain, doubling down on workplace security isn't just smart—it's essential. And I'm not talking about adding two-factor authentic
Let's Get Clear About Security
Security is one of five essential elements in the SHIFT model—alongside Horizon (growth mindset & skills orientation), Impact (meaningful action & measurement), Fluidity (adaptability), and Ties (relationships). But today, we're focusing on security because it's the foundation everything else builds upon, especially during times of transition.
When we talk about workplace security in 2025, we’re talking physical and digital security as well as something truly fundamental:
The ability to speak up without fear
Clear accountability at all levels
Protected spaces for diverse voices
Leadership that knows how to self-regulate
Psychological safety that enables innovation
What the Data Shows
After analyzing SHIFT Leadership Assessment responses from nearly 100 leaders across industries, here's what jumps out:
Leaders consistently rank security as a top priority
Yet many struggle to translate this priority into practice
Organizations that excel in security see better engagement, retention, and team cohesion
The gap between intention and implementation is where most organizations stumble
What Actually Works
Based on our data, organizations that get security right focus on three things:
They Make it Personal
Leaders model self-awareness
Everyone owns accountability
Reactions are regulated, not reactive
They Make it Practical
Clear channels for voice and feedback
Protected spaces for diverse perspectives
Consistent application of standards
They Make it Priority
Security isn't a "nice to have"
It's embedded in daily operations
It's measured and monitored
The Bottom Line
2025 isn't the year to hope workplace security takes care of itself. While we can't predict exactly what policy changes will come, we can control how we prepare our organizations to handle whatever comes next.
The SHIFT data is clear: Security isn't just another corporate priority—it's the foundation that makes everything else possible. And right now, that foundation needs strengthening in most organizations.
📢 Ready to Take Action?
Whether you are:
A leader seeking to strengthen your security-building skills
An executive looking to transform your organizational culture
A professional aiming to create transformative change in your work-life
I'd love to explore how the SHIFT model can help you build a more secure, thriving workplace.
This analysis is based on SHIFT Leadership Assessment data from nearly 100 leaders across industries. For more insights on leadership and organizational development, visit reworkingleadership.com.