You’ve most likely heard the trending term “quiet quitting” by now. Is quiet quitting real? Is quiet quitting still happening? The resounding answer is yes! At HumCap, we recognize the impact and challenges this ‘phenomenon’ poses for organizations and individuals alike. In this blog, we’re diving into the details of this powerful force and exploring its characteristics, implications, and most importantly, how HumCap can help address and overcome this silent workplace exodus.
While quiet quitting may seem like a rising social media trend or ‘phenomenon’, it has been a reality in the workplace for decades. Quiet quitting manifests itself as a gradual reduction in involvement, responsiveness, and interest in one’s work. These emotions and actions are not new – they’ve just donned a new name bringing this persona to light. At the heart of it (or lack there of) – it is simply one’s progressive disengagement in the workplace. Instead of openly addressing dissatisfaction or concerns – individuals choose to disengage silently, reducing involvement, responsiveness, avoiding responsibilities, and often becoming less communicative. This behavior is commonly driven by frustration, burnout, or disillusionment, and it can lead to significant consequences. Essentially, quiet quitting is simply doing no more than the bare minimum, which clearly takes a toll on both the employee and employer.
“The Great Resignation”, a term coined to describe the surge of voluntary departures post-pandemic, reveals the scale of the problem. Thus, why some refer to quiet quitting as a new ‘phenomenon’. In 2022 alone, a record-breaking 50.5 million people left their jobs, surpassing the previous year’s figures. Within this wave of resignations, quiet quitters constitute a significant portion of the workforce, edging on surpassing 50%.
It is clear that employee engagement in the U.S. is declining. According to Gallup, during the second quarter of 2022, the ratio of engaged to actively disengaged employees reached its lowest point in almost a decade, with engaged workers representing only 32%. This rising disengagement has a direct impact on productivity, morale, and the overall health of organizations.
Key drivers of quiet quitting are the rise of burnout, depression, and chronic anxiety in the workforce. Coupled with inflation and other stressors, the modern working population often feels exhausted and overwhelmed at a young age. To preserve their mental well-being, individuals turn to quiet quitting as a coping mechanism. It allows them to scale back and disengage emotionally and mentally from the workplace, ultimately affecting their productivity.
At HumCap, we understand the urgency of addressing quiet quitting for both the employer and employee. We provide comprehensive HR solutions and expertise to help employers create an engaging workplace environment. Our recruitment and talent management services can help you attract, retain, and motivate top talent, reducing the likelihood of quiet quitting within your organization.
If you find yourself personally contemplating or showing symptoms of quiet quitting, we encourage you to reach out to us. We offer guidance and support for individuals seeking fulfillment in their careers. Our recruiting services can help you navigate the workforce challenges and help you find a path that aligns with your passions and ambitions.
The rise of quiet quitting demands immediate attention from all sides. By recognizing the signs and addressing the underlying causes of disengagement, you can create a more fulfilling and productive work environment. Together with HumCap, we can tackle the silent workplace exodus and build thriving organizations, careers, and personal fulfillment.
Sources: Gallup
