When an employee hands in their resignation letter, it can often be felt quite hard within the team and the office. It can disrupt workflows, and team dynamics and it can be a time-consuming task to rehire for that position.
While resignations can catch employers off guard, there are often subtle signs that an employee is contemplating resigning from their role. Knowing these signs can help managers address underlying issues that may be driving the employee's dissatisfaction leading them to leave.
1. Decreased Productivity and Engagement
If an employee is starting to show a decline in their productivity and their enthusiasm towards working, this could be a sign they are mentally clocking out.
2. Withdrawal from Colleagues
If an employee who was previously a social butterfly begins to shut off and distance themselves from co-workers and socialising this could be that they are starting to disconnect emotionally.
3. Resistance to New Projects or Responsibilities
If an employee is thinking of leaving their role then they will become reluctant to take on additional workloads and to start new projects, as they don't see a future with the company.
4. Lack of Interest in Professional Development
If an employee no longer shows interest in their personal development, training or skill development. This may mean they are looking for new opportunities and are no longer interested in advancing where they are.
5. Clearing out Personal Belongings
Removing personal items from the office and slowly cleaning their workspace could also be a sign an employee is going to quit.
6. Increased Absenteeism
Reoccurring absences or a pattern of leaving early could indicate that an employee is interviewing with other companies. While occasional absences are normal, a significant increase in missed workdays should raise a few questions.
7. Frequent Job Searches or Networking
Employees spending an increased amount of time on job boards or professional networking sites during work hours could be a sign that they are actively looking for new employment opportunities.
8. Negative Attitude or Complaining
Complaints about the company, management, or working conditions can be a sign they are looking to resign, especially if the employee was previously content in their position and with management.
9. Lack of Commitment to Long-Term Projects
When an employee starts to avoid projects that extend the immediate future, this could be a sign they don't plan on being with the company long term.
10. Unexplained Changes in Behaviour or Attitude
If an employee's attitude towards their work or colleagues changes, it could mean that something significant is impacting their job satisfaction or commitment to the company.
These signs can help managers identify employees who may be at risk of leaving the company. By addressing concerns and fostering an environment that prioritises employee satisfaction and growth, you can potentially prevent employees from slipping away.