The HR phrases you should know in 2026

HR is growing fast – it seems like every day there’s a new trend, tool, or buzzword to be aware of. Whether its AI slop or a decline in employee engagement, companies need to understand how to react to these growing trends.

If you read our recent report, HR Trends 2026: Focus on the Moment, you’ll know that we’re dedicated to keeping up with the latest in HR & Payroll. Even though buzzwords aren’t everything, it’s important to know where they come from and what they represent.

This guide explains the HR slang you need to know in 2026.

Employee engagement and behaviour

Revenge quitting

When an employee resigns abruptly, either with or without notice, to make a statement about mistreatment.

Quiet cracking

A subtle form of disengagement where an employee is still present but gradually loses motivation, energy and purpose.

The Big Stay

Employees choosing to remain in their jobs long-term, due to a need for stability after years of high turnover.

AI in the workplace

Workslop

AI generated content that looks polished but lacks substance, reducing workflow quality.

Blended work

A working model where human and AI contributions align so closely that the final output becomes inseparable.

Bring your own AI

Employees using personal AI tools alongside corporate systems to boost productivity.

Responsible AI

Using AI in HR and payroll systems in a bias-free way that stays fair and transparent.

Shadow AI workforce

Undeclared or unofficial AI tools used by employees to add to their tasks without any formal rollout or official oversight.

Organisational models and bias

Geo-fluid work models

Teams shifting across time zones or locations based on project needs.

Proximity bias

Favouring employees who are physically present, an unconscious issue common in hybrid workplaces.

Skills-based architecture

Building roles and career paths around skills instead of job titles to enable flexibility and internal mobility.

Culture and environment

Anti-perks

Employee perks that backfire because they feel superficial or misaligned with employee needs.

Alonement spaces

Quiet workspaces designed for deep focus without the pressure to be social.

Coffee badging

Clocking in or showing up briefly to be seen – and then leaving.

What do these phrases mean for HR leaders?

The rise in popularity of these phrases highlight the huge shifts HR leaders need to manage in 2026.

Being able to speak the same language as your employees is a vital part in understanding what they need in the workplace.

However, it’s important to remember that change won’t come from following every passing trend – you will need to assess the insights found within your own organisation to make a real difference and build a solid, people-centric culture.

Are you interested in understanding how to future-proof your business in 2026? Check out our report, HR Trends 2026: Focus on the Moment for industry-leading insights and practical advice.

Download the report