The IC Index 2026: the reality check that makes the case for internal communication
The IC Index 2026: the reality check that makes the case for internal communication
The IC Index 2026 is published today. And this year, the data delivers something every internal communicator needs in their conversations with leaders and stakeholders.
Trust in senior leaders has fallen nine points in a year. Half of UK employees do not trust their CEO. Leaders believe they are communicating clearly on strategy, on change, on AI. The data shows their people feel very differently.
That gap is the reality check. And it is also the business case.
Organisations with a dedicated internal communication team show a 17-point employee advocacy advantage over those without one. The four strongest drivers of employee confidence in the future of their organisation are efficient working processes, open and honest communication, clarity on strategy and a credible approach to AI. Internal communication has a direct role in delivering several of these, including strategy clarity, honest communication and building confidence around AI.
Great internal communication unlocks organisational success. The IC Index 2026 is the evidence that makes that case with precision. It is the data to take into conversations with leaders and stakeholders on the importance and strategic value of the profession.
We have known for a long time that sidelining internal communication carries a cost. This data shows exactly what that cost looks like. Trust falls, change stalls and leaders lose the confidence of the people they need most. Now is not the time to cut back. It is the time to invest in the communication capability that builds trust, drives performance and holds organisations together.
Jennifer Sproul
Chief Executive, IOIC
What stands out in this year’s findings is the disconnect between leadership intention and employee experience. Most leaders believe they are communicating clearly, but many employees simply do not feel they understand the strategy, the reasons for change or how new technologies like AI will affect them. The organisations getting this right are not necessarily communicating more, they are communicating better, with greater clarity, honesty and relevance to employees’ day-to-day reality.
Louise Breed
UK CEO, Ipsos Karian and Box
Download the IC Index 2026 now and take the evidence into the conversations that matter.
The UK's leading annual research into internal communication. This year, the findings are a reality check. Based on a survey of 5,000 UK employees in organisations with 500 or more employees, conducted in partnership with Ipsos Karian and Box.
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The UK's leading annual research into internal communication. This year, the findings are a reality check. Based on a survey of 5,000 UK employees in organisations with 500 or more employees, conducted in partnership with Ipsos Karian and Box.
