CNBC kicked off this year with a sobering reminder that nearly 70% of Gen Z and millennials are considering leaving their jobs. For obvious reasons, employee retention remains a significant concern for organizations. High turnover rates can be costly and disruptive. With a job market that regularly has nearly 10 million open positions, employers need a leg up on ways to detect possible employee defections from the ranks.
Employers must be proactive in identifying signs that an employee might be planning to leave the company. By recognizing these signs early, employers can address issues, improve engagement, and hopefully, retain valuable talent. Here are four common signs that your employee may be considering leaving their current position.
How Do You Know If Your Employees Plan on Leaving?
Decreased Engagement and Productivity
One of the most noticeable signs that an employee might be planning to leave is a sudden decline in engagement and productivity. If an employee who was once proactive and passionate about their work becomes disengaged, it’s a cause for concern. They may no longer put in the extra effort, lack enthusiasm for tasks, and miss deadlines. This shift in behavior can indicate that they have mentally checked out and are no longer invested in the company’s success. This disengagement can be a precursor to resignation, as employees may seek new opportunities where they feel more motivated and valued.
Increased Absenteeism and Tardiness
When employees start missing work more frequently or consistently arrive late, it can signify their waning commitment to the organization. Frequent absenteeism and tardiness can indicate disengagement or unhappiness with their current job. Employees who are considering leaving might use this to mentally distance themselves from their responsibilities and reduce their attachment to the workplace. It’s essential for employers to address these attendance issues promptly and have open conversations with the employee to understand the underlying causes.
Withdrawal from Team and Social Activities
Another indicator of employees’ intention to leave is their withdrawal from the team and social activities within the workplace. When employees distance themselves from colleagues, it may signal a desire to detach emotionally from the organization. They may decline invitations to team lunches, company events, or social gatherings, preferring to keep their interactions strictly professional. This isolation can indicate that they are disengaging from the company’s culture and exploring opportunities elsewhere. Employers should be attentive to these changes and attempt to re-engage employees within the team and organizational community.
Exploring External Opportunities
The most explicit sign of an employee’s intention to leave is when they actively seek external job opportunities. These activities could involve updating their resume, applying for other positions, or attending job interviews. If an employee is openly searching for new opportunities, it indicates that they are dissatisfied with their current role. Employers should proactively address this situation by initiating an open dialogue with the employee. Sometimes, addressing their concerns, offering growth opportunities, or making necessary changes to retain them might be possible.
Employee Behavior Oversight with Exelare
Recognizing the signs that an employee plans to leave is vital for effective talent management. While not all employees can be retained, being proactive in identifying these signs can help organizations minimize turnover and create a more positive and engaging work environment. Exelare offers recruiting teams an easier way to track performance with our software tools. Find out how we can help your business and support employee retention. Contact us today.