Since President Donald Trump returned to Office in January 2025, the global landscape has experienced rapid and bold transformations. His assertive policies, bold moves and decisive actions have reshaped industries, economies, and societies. Leaders worldwide feel the urgency to adapt swiftly. The era of change presents both challenges and opportunities to companies.
The world is on fire
The recent imposition of tariffs on US’ major trade partners has disrupted global supply chains, The rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has caused a shift in many companies and a sparking debates on corporate values and responsibility. The DOGE project with brutal redundancies in administration offices, makes Boardrooms talk about corporate efficiency. Sustainbility and green agenda has moved 15 places back in priority.
These are just a few of the recent White House shifts. Bold changes that are not just affecting the U.S. but are echoing globally, influencing the way politicians, business leaders, managers, negotiators, buyers and other professionals operate.
The current climate is marked by swift policy shifts, bold leadership, and an assertive business mindset. Beyond Trump’s impactful changes, there is a new style being born; The era of bold, swift action is here. Hesitation seems something from the past.
Transformations are unavoidable
Trump’s decisiveness and speed set a tone on how leaders will lead. Staying behind is no option in this super fast changing world.
Transformations will no longer be occasional, strategic, well-planned change projects, but a continuous reality. Organizations must adapt continuously and with boldness to regulatory changes, evolving market conditions, shifting societal expectations, new anxiousness and new global trade realities. Transformations are unavoidable. The companies that thrive will be those that can embrace change with agility and decisiveness.
But transformation is never just about strategy—it’s largely about perception. Employees, customers, interest groups, communities, and other stakeholders must understand and align with the changes. And that’s where communication plays a crucial role. Without clear, strategic communication, transformation efforts can lead to confusion, resistance, or failure.
Communication is essential for successful transformation
In times of rapid change, communication is not just about sending message. It’s about creating understanding, engagement, and action. Reputations and trust are at stake if change is not well managed.
Here are three essential principles for effective communication in this new era:
- Clarity: say it like it is
One of the biggest mistakes organizations make during transformation is vague or overly polished messaging. In turbulent times, people don’t want corporate jargon—they want straightforward clarity. This is where we can learn from the Dutch approach: be direct, transparent and to the point.
Clarity in communication means:
- Clearly stating what is happening and why
- Setting realistic expectations
- Avoiding unnecessary complexity or sugarcoating
In a business context, clarity is sometimes mistaken for harshness. But in reality, it builds trust. As Brene Brown says it in her book ‘Daring Leadership: ‘Clear = kind. Unclear = unkind’. People appreciate knowing where they stand, even if the news is tough. The worst thing leaders can do is leave stakeholders guessing.
- Empathy: acknowledge the uncertainty
While clarity is essential, it must be paired with empathy. Change is unsettling, and in times of transformation, employees, partners, and customers may feel lost or anxious. They need more than just facts—they need to know that leadership understands their concerns and is committed to guiding them through the uncertainty.
Empathy in communication means:
- Recognizing concerns and emotions openly
- Addressing how changes impact different stakeholders
- Creating safe spaces for dialogue and feedback
A leader who acknowledges uncertainty and speaks with authenticity and vulnerability, will foster loyalty and commitment, even in difficult times. People don’t just want to be informed; they want to be heard.
- Consistency: build anchor points within the chaos
In a rapidly changing world, people crave stability and anchor points, When leadership communication is inconsistent, it creates confusion and distrust. On the other hand, a predictable, structured approach to communication provides a sense of security.
Consistency in communication means:
- Developing regular communication rhythms (e.g., weekly updates, town halls)
- Aligning all messaging across different channels and leaders
- Sticking to core themes that reinforce the company’s direction
Even if the business landscape is shifting, consistent messaging reassures people that leadership is in control and that there is a clear path forward.
Use Transformation as an opportunity
While the speed and boldness of recent changes can feel overwhelming, they also create openings for reinvention. If leaders can communicate transformation effectively—through clarity, empathy, and consistency—they can turn disruption into an opportunity for progress.
Adaptability, bold decision-making, and strategic communication will define the organizations that succeed in this new era. Those who resist change or fail to engage their stakeholders risk being left behind. Transformation is not just something to survive—it’s something to seize.
In the end, the leaders who navigate this era successfully will not be those who act the fastest, but those who communicate the smartest. The world is changing. The question is: Are you ready to lead in it?