Crisis In Employee Trust: 216% Drop In eNPS Highlights Cultural Fallout Of Layoffs

A 216% drop in employee net promoter score or eNPS from 2.78 to -3.23 highlights impact of layoffs on workplace culture, according to a latest report by CultureMonkey—an AI-powered employee engagement platform.

This stark decline highlights the emotional and cultural aftershocks companies face when layoffs are not supported by transparent communication and empathetic leadership. 

The eNPS is a critical metric used to assess employee satisfaction and organisational engagement. It measures how likely employees are to recommend their workplace to others, offering a tangible snapshot of internal sentiment. Calculated on a scale of -100 to +100, the eNPS provides companies with a standardised benchmark to track, analyse, and improve the employee experience over time.

Drawing insights from over 150 organisations across the United States, Europe, India, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, the report combines survey data from more than 50 industry experts and conversations with over 300 HR and business leaders. "The findings deliver strategic depth to a growing concern: the human cost of business disruptions," the company said.

In addition to the sharp decline in eNPS, the study also recorded a 16% drop in employee feedback survey participation and an 18.64% decline in employee advocacy. These shifts indicate more than just disengagement—they reflect eroding trust, growing apprehension, and a breakdown in the psychological contract between employees and employers.

As companies confront ongoing restructuring, market volatility, and evolving employee expectations, the report urges leaders to adopt a more employee-centric approach. Real-time employee listening, transparent communication, and inclusive decision-making emerged as key factors in sustaining morale and minimising attrition.

The report serves as a wake-up call for organisations aiming to build resilient, trust-based workplace cultures. It offers a blueprint for navigating change and driving long-term success by prioritising the employee experience—especially during uncertain times.