Cutting corners or care?
With searches for “cost optimization” consistently outnumbering those for “employee wellbeing," the cost‑cutting mindset is shaping company culture. In this report, we put this trend under the microscope and explore why it’s damaging businesses.
Let the numbers do the talking
From Germany to Portugal, interest in cost optimisation beats concern for employee wellbeing. This global imbalance reveals a lot about the mindset of company leaders. But are they aware of the risks that come with underinvesting in people?
- In boardrooms across the globe
- a quiet tug-of-war is playing out
- between profit and people
Our methodology
Our global study uses Semrush monthly search data across Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and Mexico. We map search volumes for "cost optimization" vs. "employee wellbeing" and show why it matters - for companies and the people in them.
- What costs more - expenses or burnout?
- Are companies optimising profits or undermining people?
- Is cutting costs today creating bigger problems tomorrow?
