Quiet Quitting in the Workplace: What Employers Should Know

Have you ever felt that you don’t belong in your current job anymore? Do you feel anxious or unhappy about going to work every day? You might be experiencing what is called “Quiet Quitting in the Workplace.” Quitting a job can be a daunting task, especially if you are uncertain about your next move. So, instead of making an abrupt exit, some employees opt to quietly quit their jobs. But what is quiet quitting, and why is it a problem in the workplace?

According to Gena Cox, Ph.D., CEO Feels Human LLS, an organizational psychologist and executive coach, quiet quitting is a response to a person’s perception that their employer is taking advantage of them. It is linked to employee burnout which can be a result of unjust treatment in the workplace, heavy workload, unclear definition of job roles and responsibilities, absence or lack of management communication or support, impractical deadlines, and neglecting employee well-being.

What is Quiet Quitting?

Quiet quitting is a phenomenon that occurs when an employee decides to leave their job but chooses not to communicate their intention to their employer or colleagues. This type of quitting is also known as “passive resignation” or “slow quitting.” Instead of resigning formally, the employee may withdraw from their responsibilities, stop engaging with colleagues, and reduce their productivity until they eventually quit or get fired. Quiet quitting occurs when an employee becomes disengaged and emotionally uninvolved in their work. Quiet quitting is not always a sudden decision, but rather a slow and silent process that can take weeks, months, or even years.

Why do Employees Quietly Quit?

There are various reasons why employees opt for quiet quitting in the workplace. Some of the reasons include:

• Lack of job satisfaction
• Feeling overworked
• Concerns are not being addressed
• Limited opportunities for career growth
• Fear of confrontation
• Not feeling appreciated by their employer
• Feeling that they are not receiving adequate pay for the work done
• Not having a good relationship with their supervisor

Impact of Quiet Quitting

According to a Gallup survey of workers in June 2022, at least 50% of the U.S. workforce could be classified as quiet quitters. The survey also found that only 32% of workers were engaged in their work and workplace, while 18% were openly disengaged.

Companies worldwide experience losses of up to $1.5 trillion annually due to quiet quitting. According to a study on workplace engagement conducted by The Conference Board, US businesses incur an annual cost of $450 to 500 billion due to quiet quitting.

Quiet quitting can have a significant impact on the workplace, both in terms of productivity and morale. It can lead to decreased morale, increased employee turnover, and decreased profits for the company. It can also lead to a negative work environment, leading to resentment, mistrust, and a decline in teamwork. Finally, it can affect the company’s reputation, particularly if the employee who quit was in a leadership position.

How to Handle Quiet Quitting 

Employers should create a positive work environment that encourages open communication and collaboration, provide a safe space for employees to voice their opinions, and conduct regular employee satisfaction surveys to assess job satisfaction. These surveys should be anonymous, allowing employees to share their opinions without fear of retaliation. Based on the survey results, employers can identify areas for improvement and take steps to address any issues.

How to Quit Professionally

If you find yourself in a position where you no longer feel fulfilled or appreciated at work, it may be time to consider quitting. However, it is important to quit your job professionally to avoid burning bridges with your employer or colleagues. Consider the following tips for resigning from your job in a professional manner:

Give notice: Give your employer adequate notice before leaving. Two weeks is the standard notice period, but you may want to give more notice if you have a key role in the company.

Be honest: Be honest with your employer about why you are leaving but keep the conversation positive. Thank them for the opportunities they have provided you and the experiences you have gained.

Don’t burn bridges: Avoid badmouthing your employer or colleagues, even if you had a bad experience. Remember that your reputation is important and that your past employer may be contacted by future employers.

Help with the transition: Offer to help with the transition process by training your replacement or tying up loose ends.

Quietly quitting a job can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience, but it is a necessary step for some employees. Whether you are leaving due to personal reasons or for professional growth opportunities, it is important to handle the situation with grace and professionalism. By communicating openly with your employer, providing ample notice, and tying up any loose ends, you can ensure a smooth and respectful transition for both you and your employer. Remember, how you leave a job can impact your professional reputation and future opportunities, so always strive to leave on good terms.