As loyal readers of this blog know, we periodically mention trends in workforce engagement. A new study conducted by The Ladders shows that over 60% of respondents said they were actively looking for new jobs and that only 11% were happy with their current job. That 60% is up 10% from the last time we referenced a report.

This is a subject we have addressed in the past and today I use it as a reminder. People are unhappy with their jobs and are actively looking to leave their current roles. Interestingly enough, they are becoming more public with their displeasure in their position.

To quote Danny Nelms and Tom Mahan from their new book, The Why Factor: Winning with Employee Intelligence (available for pre-order now through The Work Institute):

“If this data is representative of your company, this could mean half of your employees are not putting their hearts and minds into their jobs. And they will leave as soon as the opportunity presents itself. Is this true in your organization?

• Are people leaving?
• Are people increasingly disconnected?
• Are people planning on leaving?
• Is employee intent reflected in the quality of their work?
• How do you know?”

This can be an unsettling stat to confront, but there is hope. The first step is finding out from your employees what would make them to stay with your organization. It seems too simple, but it works.

By William Mahan