Article Summary
President Donald Trump’s tariffs and trade wars have introduced uncertainty, affecting U.S. consumer and business confidence and impacting companies like Delta Air Lines. Delta worried investors by reducing profit expectations for the first quarter and withdrawing full-year guidance for 2025. CEO Ed Bastian noted the difficulties in predicting policy changes due to global trade uncertainties. Despite challenges, Delta proceeded with a scheduled 4% pay raise for employees, consistent with prior commitments.
Bastian emphasized the significance of maintaining employee morale through consistent support, as discussed during a Fortune-hosted webinar, which also featured Accenture CEO Julie Sweet. Sweet highlighted Accenture’s rapid response to the tariff news, including hosting numerous client webinars and providing employees with resources to understand the impact on business. This approach reinforced Accenture’s commitment to swiftly addressing change, contributing to its high rank on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list.
Delta’s commitment to employee communication was evident in CEO Bastian’s engagement sessions with frontline workers, ongoing for 19 years. During these sessions, discussions often focus on the impact of tariffs, which have caused a decline in consumer confidence. However, Bastian remains optimistic about Delta’s performance, citing continued spending by its affluent customer base.
Reflecting on Delta’s ability to navigate difficult economic climates, Bastian noted the importance of leadership in addressing challenges directly. Similarly, Sweet discussed how Accenture helps clients consider the broader implications of geopolitical issues, focusing on growth opportunities amidst operational and financial resilience.
This article was originally published on Fortune.com.
