Confidence in Action: The Unseen Measure of Economic Health

Introducing the Worker Confidence Tracker

Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, the U.S. workforce is not defined by instability or pessimism. Instead, new research reveals a striking divide in where confidence is placed. Professionals increasingly trust what they can see, experience, and influence directly, their employers, leaders, and industry networks; while remaining deeply skeptical of distant institutions such as federal government, regulation, and national media.

This phenomenon, referred to as the “confidence gap,” is the central finding of The Workforce Confidence Index, a multi-wave quantitative tracking study conducted by RONIN International and myClearOpinion Insights Hub. Drawing on responses from more than 3,500 professionals across key U.S. industries between June and October 2025, the study offers a clear snapshot of how confidence is evolving; and where it is eroding.

This initiative tracks and evaluates U.S. worker confidence in four essential areas:

1. Government and Policy: Are workers confident that policies benefit their industry?
2. Industry Outlook: What is their level of optimism regarding the future of their field?
3. Organizational Leadership: Do employees trust their leaders to make sound decisions?
4. Personal Security: How secure do individuals feel about their job stability and financial situation?

The Importance of Confidence for All Businesses

When the confidence of both employees and management declines, the consequences immediately follow:

• Employees are reluctant to switch jobs or advocate for new ideas.
• Organizations postpone investments, hiring, and expansion efforts.
• Owners and key stakeholders become hesitant to make decisive moves.
• Economic growth stagnates as uncertainty persist.

Conversely, high levels of employee confidence foster resilience. Studies consistently show that confident employees contribute to increased productivity, enhanced innovation, and improved financial results. For leaders, confidence enables decisive actions and strategic flexibility; traits that are crucial during uncertain periods.

Our Definition of Confidence in the Tracker

In our research, confidence refers to the level of optimism that workers and leaders have about maintaining stability, achieving goals, and adapting to changes in the next 6–12 months. This definition allows us to assess confidence across various levels; personal, organizational, and institutional. This enables businesses to benchmark and respond to what is most important.

What This Means for Leaders

As confidence in national institutions erodes, organizational credibility becomes the primary anchor of workforce trust. Clear leadership communication, consistent decision-making, and strong industry networks matter more than ever. Trusted trade media also plays a critical role in reaching informed, high-value audiences.

What’s Ahead

In the coming weeks, we will be sharing findings from our Workforce Confidence Tracker, shedding light on the true implications of confidence for workers, leaders, and the economy. Stay connected with us for updates and discover how confidence can be a vital indicator for your organization during uncertain times. Keep up to date on important developments in business confidence and employee engagement metrics.