The Great Resignation Is Coming

Russ Hill -

Can you feel it coming in the air tonight? Yes, Phil, I can.

Covid changed a lot. More than we can even imagine.

As restrictions ease and offices reopen there's about to be a massive shift in employment. I'm no employment data scientist but you don't have to be to see what's coming.

I riffed about this in a recent podcast episode and the response was intense. DM's on LinkedIn from around the world. Across industries. Up and down the org chart.

Here's the quick version of what I'm seeing...

  • Covid provided some space from the team at work.
  • People's routines and priorities have changed.
  • Many don't want to go back to how it was.
  • The tolerance for leaders who don't listen is fading. Fast.
  • The ability to control one's schedule is increasing more valuable than the level of compensation.
  • All of this comes as the employment market is getting hotter.

Put more simply: People are tired of feeling trapped. Trapped in a job where they don't feel heard. Trapped in a job where they don't feel in control. Trapped in cultures that take away from their well-being.

Not everyone feels this way. I get it. If you don't... hold tight to that job and find a way to grow in that company. Because, you are the exception.

I've felt this shift coming for months. And have frankly been surprised at how much it's spread in recent weeks (bad choice of words - sorry!).

If you follow me on LinkedIn you've probably noticed I'm hitting this topic a ton. It's because it's resonating. Big time. I've hit a nerve.

My quick suggestion for individuals who feel trapped: be bold. Talk to everyone. Don't make a short-term move. Make a long-term change. The path will never be fully visible. If you've got money in the bank and connections you feel good about then act sooner than later.

My suggestion for leaders in companies: change the way you lead. Hold fewer meetings. Make sure people feel heard. Let people decide where and when they want to work (home or office and what hours or days). Start shifting to more performance-based pay and lean away from salaries. People want security but they're increasingly valuing freedom and control. Get ahead of the curve and you'll be an attractive place to work.

For more on this topic listen to this recent podcast episode:

What are you seeing? Are you feeling any of this? Send me a DM on LinkedIn. I want to hear your story.

P.S. Do someone a favor (and me one too). Forward this to someone you know who feels trapped. They will appreciate knowing they're not alone. ✌🏼