How businesses can thrive under Labour's leadership: insights from WE & Lodestone’s roundtable

Harold Wilson famously said that “a week is a long time in politics”. But if he were alive today, he’d have to admit that 24 hours is more than enough to dramatically change the headlines. Since we hosted our post-election breakfast roundtable two weeks ago, attention has turned to the other side of the Atlantic where we’ve seen an attempted assassination on Donald Trump, the elevation of the chameleonic Ohio Senator J.D Vance to VP-in-waiting, and then Joe Biden renouncing his nomination and passing the baton to Vice President Kamala Harris, who is now all but certain to replace him in the race.

There will be many more twists and turns over the next three months, of which businesses will need to keep a close eye on. But that doesn't mean they can afford not to keep their antennae on UK politics, where the new Labour government is using the relative stability offered by its large majority to tackle the nation's biggest challenges.

While Keir Starmer’s government has made clear it cannot change the country by “flicking a switch” and ministers are publicly admitting the situation is far worse than they imagined, the work has begun with ‘delivery’ as the watchword of the moment.

As communicators, we must help organisations thrive in this new political reality. That’s why in the days after the election, WE hosted a breakfast with our partners, Lodestone Communications . I had the pleasure of moderating a panel, with three expert election watchers: Sky News anchor Matt Barbet , Lodestone managing director Martha Dalton , and Survation Ltd CEO Damian Lyons Lowe .

Let's explore the key themes that emerged and their implications for organizations looking to thrive in this new environment.

1.?A mandate for pragmatic progress

Our panellists emphasised that Labour's victory, while decisive, doesn't necessarily reflect overwhelming public enthusiasm. As Damian noted, "What we haven't seen is an endorsement or hope or optimism about what Labour will achieve." This cautious public sentiment actually provides Labour with room to exceed expectations.

2. Follow the ‘Five Missions’ framework

Martha Dalton of Lodestone Communications stressed the centrality of Labour's five missions, stating, "five missions are going to be what is driving the government programme." These missions provide a clear roadmap for government priorities and opportunity for businesses to contribute.

3.?Take the long view

The panel suggested that Labour's potential for two terms provides an extended runway for businesses to adapt and engage. This longer time horizon allows for more strategic planning and investment.

4.?Proactively engage and innovate

Martha encouraged businesses to be proactive, stating, "people with good ideas, now is your time, the government wants to hear from you." Actively develop and propose innovative solutions that can help fill gaps in policy delivery.

5.?Be clear and honest in communication

The panel emphasized the need for transparency and realistic expectations. As Matt Barbet noted, "If there isn't the raw honesty about things, people will be asking why." Honest, straightforward messaging will build credibility and trust.

Welcoming a new political reality

The 2024 UK election has created a new political reality, one that presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. By aligning with Labour's pragmatic approach, focusing on the five missions, taking a long-term view, proactively engaging with innovative ideas, and communicating clearly, organizations can also position themselves for success.

As communicators, our role is to help navigate this new terrain – and seize on the optimism of the moment. The next five years offer a unique window for businesses to make a meaningful impact on the UK's future – it's up to us to take that opportunity.

If you're interested in learning more about how to communicate in the wake of the Labour landslide, contact Ryan Larnach directly at [email protected].

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