What is Quiet Quitting?
A trending term you've likely seen circulating through social media this week is ‘Quiet Quitting’. Stemming from a TikTok trend, the term is defined as doing the bare minimum outlined in your job description and avoiding going above and beyond for your employers. While the term is trending, "quiet quitting" isn't anything new; rather, the phrase repackages a well-worn concept: employee disengagement.
The difference this time is a result of the pandemic and the unprecedented burnout we're seeing due to the great reshuffle, negotiations over flexible work arrangements, and the recession.
In contrast to the name of the term, employees aren’t quitting their jobs, but they’re completing exactly what has been assigned to them and nothing more. The term seeks to retaliate against the ‘hustle mentality’’ that has been instilled in many of us to work hard and do our absolute best for our employers. Many workers have found themselves working too hard and going above and beyond for little to no recognition from their employers. This ultimately leads employees to become burnt out and discontent with the workplace.
With over millions of views and a large selection of original TikTok content, the hashtag (#QuietQuitting) and the term has become a huge topic of discussion over the last few days. Many individuals have joined the trend and agree with the commitment to prioritizing personal work boundaries.
Here are some tips to support your employees during this time:
Show recognition
When employees are trying their best to do things to improve your business or workplace, recognize them for their work. Employees who willingly offer to go beyond what has been assigned to them are some of the most valuable people to have on your team. It is crucial as a manager or boss to recognize their hard work because sooner or later, they will question their worth within the company. Recognition for hard work can range from verbal acknowledgement, physical gifts, or monetary bonuses and promotions to make the employee feel noticed for their hard work and stress.
Be Accommodating
The pandemic has shown that accommodation was something that many workplaces needed to improve on. If your employees are feeling unwell or if they feel like they need time off, give them the break they need so that they can come back stronger. If your team voices that the virtual office is preferred, create a plan and continue to make it happen to the best of your ability or vice versa if they prefer an in-person office. Sometimes the best way to connect with employees is through showing care, and by being accommodating, employees will feel protected and satisfied working with their managers.
Be a Proactive Leader & Check-in Regularly
As a leader, take initiative and ensure your employees are healthy and content with the work environment. Whether it is having one on one meetings with individual members or creating surveys to access the workplace, being proactive can prevent employees from feeling burnout or a lack of motivation. There is always room for improvement and if your employees voice it, try your best to help them! Remember checking in is not a one time thing. Focus on getting continuous, frequent, and strategic feedback that helps you address disengagement proactively.
