8 Regarding employees, WE’s findings reveal other quality-of life issues beyond financial compensation that need attention. Companies also must support their people during these challenging times by investing in their emotional wellness. The three most important immediate actions: 1. Ensure employee work-life balance by increasing paid time off, allowing flexible schedules. 2. Raise average employee compensation to meet or exceed the living wage. 3. Invest in health and well-being programs such as mental health, physical health and/or childcare support. On the consumer side, rising costs are a major concern. When you’re worried about paying the heating bill, it’s hard to focus on issues that don’t impact you in the here and now, such as a war in a distant country or an abstract report about CO2 emissions. People still care about these issues and want brands to continue to work on them , but they don’t want brands passing the costs to them: 68% say brands should do the right thing, but not at the expense of product affordability, access and performance. Only 46% are prepared to pay a higher price for products and services so that brands can continue their purpose and ESG commitments. When you’re worried about paying the heating bill, it’s hard to focus on issues that don’t impact you in the here and now.