The pandemic has wreaked havoc on so many lives, but it appears that the job market is one area in which the damage is particularly evident. In 2021, 63% of workers who quit their jobs cited low pay and lack of opportunity for advancement as the main reasons. Even more concerning was that 57% reported feeling disrespected at work, leading to them quitting their job. This phenomenon has been dubbed The Great Resignation, as the statistics suggest that this mass exodus from the workforce is being driven by pandemic exhaustion and a need for higher wages, respect, and career opportunities.
It’s no surprise that employees who are not compensated properly or feel disregarded will decide to leave their jobs in search of something better. Low pay and lack of career progress can be incredibly demoralizing, leading to dissatisfaction with one’s current role — something we’ve all felt during this difficult time. Unfortunately, many have turned to leaving their jobs entirely rather than sticking it out in hopes of things improving in due time.
The issue of respect or lack thereof should also be pondered when discussing The Great Resignation. Feeling respected in a workplace is incredibly important; if employees do not feel valued or appreciated then they are likely to look elsewhere for their next position. Respect can come in many forms such as understanding a person’s needs or showing consideration for an individual’s ideas; a lot of people who quit their jobs cite these two issues as key drivers behind why they left.
The pandemic has had catastrophic effects on our society and economy in general — though it has particularly impacted those individuals looking for work or hoping to find a better job after leaving their previous one. With the labor market already weak due to the economic recession caused by COVID-19, the added pressure from increased resignations means there are fewer opportunities available for others looking to enter the workforce now more than ever before.
As we move into 2021, what can be done about The Great Resignation? Solutions like increasing wages and offering career progression opportunities may help reduce turnover rates across organizations while also encouraging workers to remain loyal despite feeling unsatisfied with low pay or lack of advancement options. Additionally, making sure employees feel appreciated through consistent recognition displays of respect could also go far towards convincing them to stay put instead of moving on and eventually seeking greener pastures elsewhere. Lastly, employers should focus on creating excellent workspaces where employees can thrive both professionally and personally — this not only helps keep morale high but may even lead to increased productivity levels too!
It’s clear that The Great Resignation carries tremendous implications on our society; from businesses losing valuable talent due to low pay and lack of opportunity for growth as well as individuals having fewer job prospects since more people are leaving existing ones than entering new ones because of pandemic fatigue combined with feeling disrespected at work. It’s going to be essential for companies to recognize these issues now if they want any chance at retaining their staff members post-pandemic—otherwise The Great Resignation will continue on into the future doing even more damage along way!