As the business landscape continues to shift, employees are constantly finding ways to adjust to the pace of change. In 2021, employees were quitting their jobs in record numbers in what was dubbed “The Great Resignation.” In 2022, employees used “quiet quitting” and “coffee badging” to attain more flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance.
Today’s employees now realize the value of longevity. However, just because they’re no longer vacating their positions doesn’t mean they’re thriving. Instead, many have become victims of a particularly alarming trend known as “quiet cracking.” Discover the details behind this new workplace phenomenon and how you can stop it from negatively impacting your organization.
What Is Quiet Cracking?
Quiet cracking is simply succumbing to feelings of chronic unhappiness in the workplace. When morale is consistently low, it leads employees to disengage from their work and workplace culture and consider ways to leave their jobs.
Unlike “quiet quitting,” quiet cracking doesn’t always show up in performance metrics right away. Consequently, employees often fly under the radar until it’s too late. That’s why it’s crucial for employers to notice the signs and devise a plan before organizational performance tanks.
Why Today’s Employees Are So Unhappy
A recent survey shows that 54% of employees are unhappy at work. Here are just some of the reasons so many feel this way.
Lack of Certainty
Many employees feel like they are on shaky ground. They’re often unsure about how the economy will hold up in the future, and they may feel insecure about whether they have a long-term future with your company.
Lack of Care
Gallup surveys show that only 39% of employees feel that someone truly cares about them at work. Many believe they’re simply a cog in the wheel and are disconnected from the company’s mission and purpose.
Lack of Clarity
The same Gallup data indicates that less than half of employees know what is expected of them at work. Poor communication about expectations can create stress for employees — especially when coupled with heavier workloads.
How Is Quiet Cracking Affecting Workplaces?
Quiet cracking can cost both you and your employees more than you know.
Negative Effects on Employees
Quiet cracking can:
- Increase frustration
- Decrease performance
- Hinder career advancement
- Create psychological strain
All of these things can increase employees’ stress levels and ultimately lead to burnout.
Negative Effects on Employers
When left unchecked, quiet cracking can:
- Reduce productivity
- Erode loyalty
- Increase turnover
- Lower morale
Taken together, these issues can lead to a decrease in organizational performance and show up in lower profit margins.
Strategies to Address Quiet Cracking in Your Organization
The good news is that your organization doesn’t have to suffer from quiet cracking. Consider the following ways you can combat this negative trend.
Invest in Learning and Development
New skills boost confidence and productivity. When you pair this learning with intentional career pathing, you can help employees see a future with your company.
Recognize Employees
Gallup data shows that well-recognized employees are 45% less likely to turn over after two years. Whether it’s small prizes or regular shout-outs, find ways to let employees know that you see their hard work and recognize the integral role it plays in organizational success.
Focus on Employee Well-Being
Employees want to know that you care about them beyond what they can do for the company. It’s important to balance workloads so employees don’t feel overwhelmed and consider how you can offer flexible schedules to promote work-life balance.
Set Clear Expectations
Make performance metrics and expectations clear to employees so they know when they’re doing well and what needs to improve. Additionally, give them the support they need to overcome roadblocks when they face them.
Realize You Have Time, but Start Now
Employees are quietly cracking, but they aren’t leaving just yet. Start surveying your employees now to find out how you can improve culture so that you can build a better workplace in the years to come.
Quiet Cracking Doesn’t Have to Be Your Downfall
Quiet cracking can be a challenging phenomenon, but there is something you can do about it. Our AssetHR team can show you how to build a workplace that empowers employees instead of stressing them out. Contact us today to learn more about our HR consulting services and see how we can create a solid foundation for a thriving workforce.