Quiet Quitting is a term that has come to light as a result of employees wanting more out of their work commitment. Quiet quitting isn’t just a symptom of the post-pandemic world. It’s the result of people questioning their priorities and reevaluating the personal pros and cons of their employment…and, most importantly, their employer.
Quiet Quitting is a new term for an old concept. It describes employees who exist in that state between “actively engaged” and “actively disengaged.” Actively disengaged employees are dissatisfied with their workplace, but haven’t quit. Quiet Quitting also refers to those employees who do the minimum requirements of their job and put in no more time, effort, or enthusiasm than absolutely necessary.
The Quiet Quitting worker is not engaged in the company, doesn’t actually leave their position, and continues to collect a paycheck.
Employees want more than a salary, perks, and benefits out of their work. They want a sense of fulfillment, balance and community that comes from doing work that matters and feeling that what they’re contributing has purpose and value.
In a 2023 Global Culture Report published by the O.C. Tanner Institute, it was concluded that highly fulfilled employees plan on staying at their organization three years longer than unfulfilled employees. In fact, two thirds of employees reflect on they work they do, with 83% saying “Finding meaning” was a top priority. Nearly 69% of those surveyed would change jobs for more fulfillment.
Nearly 1 in 3 employees don’t feel fulfilled at work. According to O.C. Tanner, this makes them:
- 399% more likely to actively look for another job
- 340% more likely to leave the organization within a year
- 47% less likely to put in a great deal of effort to help the organization succeed
- 71% less likely to promote the organization as a great place to work
Fulfillment is bigger than engagement or job satisfaction. Four main factors strongly influence
fulfillment:
- Community, Connection & Belonging
- Balance
- Growth
- Purpose
To help avoid Quiet Quitting happening in your workplace, consider implementing these best practices based on the values of today’s worker:
- Keep increases in workload short term
- Ensure your team is properly compensated
- Make stepping in to take on additional responsibilities optional
- Actively listen to your employees
- Maintain boundaries
- Be upfront about growth and advancement potential
- Use employee recognition strategies
- Build rapport and relationships
While these tips may be similar to an employee retention strategy, keep in mind that employees deserve reasonable working conditions, positive cultures and a chance to be passionate about their jobs. Having opportunities for growth, advancement and the ability to have a life outside of the office for a healthy life-work balance are essentials to avoid the Quiet Quitting trend impacting your business.
For the latest updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn for even more business tips and news.
*Southland Data Processing, Inc. (“SDP”) is not a law firm. This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon in reaching a conclusion in a particular area of law. Applicability of the legal principles discussed may differ substantially in individual situations. Receipt of this or any other SDP materials does not create an attorney-client relationship. SDP is not responsible for any inadvertent errors that may occur in the publishing process.