Almost two thirds of professionals in the USA have stated that their job doesn’t fulfill their expectations, however they have very little intention to leave in the coming year – due to the unstable economic environment.
Of those who are unhappy in their current role – just a fifth have stated that they are actively looking to move, according to new research from global talent solutions business Robert Walters.
The trend – referred to as workplace resenteeism – happens when an employee stays in a job despite being unhappy. They actively dislike their job, feel frustrated with their work or employer but feel trapped in their role.
“Being unhappy in a job is not a new phenomenon, however what is unfamiliar is that these unsatisfied professionals aren’t considering proactive solutions – such as looking for a new job,” says Gerrit Bouckaert, CEO – Recruitment at Robert Walters. “In the past year we heard about trends such as quiet quitting – when employees take control of their work life balance and push back on additional tasks and responsibilities outside of their job description. Whilst both concepts are a result of workplace dissatisfaction, someone experiencing resenteeism may continue to be productive, making it difficult for employers to spot.”
A difficult jobs market
An overwhelming 72% said that fears around job security has prevented them from raising their concerns to management – according to the Robert Walters poll.
A further 43% stated that an unstable economy and quiet jobs market (33%) has halted their desire to look for opportunities elsewhere, and that as a result they would rather ‘stick it out’ in their current job (38%).
Gerrit states, “As daunting as it may seem, professionals should actively seek job opportunities even in an unstable market. Remaining in a role that is no longer serving your career needs can be detrimental to your work ethic and skills development.
“Being open to the jobs market allows professionals to explore new possibilities, gain valuable experience, expand their professional network, adapt to changing industries, and maintain their career momentum despite challenging circumstances.”
Causes of Resenteeism
When asked what was causing them to feel unhappy; over a third stated low job satisfaction and not enjoying the day-to-day tasks as the primary reason (34%), followed by limited growth and advancement opportunities (29%), fear of job loss or job insecurity (22%), and lack of recognition or reward (15%).
Gerrit adds,“Over the last few years there has been a big shift in how people view their work, with many people re-evaluating their work, priorities and what they want to do. Ultimately it led to employees leaving the workforce in droves – what we know now as the Great Resignation.
“Some employees, however, didn’t quit and stayed in their job, and for those whose needs have not been met this can result in them not only deprioritizing their job but resenting it and feeling disengaged and unhappy at work.”
Established in 1985, Robert Walters is a global talent solutions business operating in 31 countries across the globe. We support organisations to build high-performing teams, and help professionals to grow meaningful careers. Our client base ranges from the world’s leading blue-chip corporates through to SMEs and start-ups.
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