Rage Quitting: Costly Consequences for Employers and Employees

Rage quitting is all the rage these days. 😠😠😠

Rage quitting is when an employee basically tells their employer to "take this job and shove it!" 

Sounds empowering, doesn't it? 

Employers, who don’t want to be left high and dry, should pay attention to this new trend.

Workers may want to take a deep breath before joining this movement. 

What's Fueling Rage Quitting

Frustrated workers are most likely to walk out the door in a fit of rage. If one more thing goes wrong, they'll quit in a flash.

Work is a source of stress for many employed workers, leading to irritability, exhaustion, and difficulty regulating emotions.  According to the American Institute of Stress, 55% of Americans are stressed during the day, and 63% of US workers are ready to quit their jobs to avoid work-related stress.

Everyone experiences stress from time to time. But what happens when stress levels impact physical and mental health? Eventually, something must give. 

We're seeing a surge in employee quit rates due to several factors, including unrealistic work expectations, company layoffs, and overworked employees. People are getting to the point where they believe quitting is their only option.

How Companies Can Reduce Rage Quitting

Someone quitting on the spot, because they’re fed up, should not come as a surprise—that is if you’re paying attention to your people and your company culture. 

Prioritize company culture and employee well-being. The top reasons for rage quitting are related to poor management, toxic work environments, excessive stress, and lack of respect from managers and coworkers. 

Focus on building a positive, supportive culture where employees feel valued. 

Provide better management training and development. Poor management and toxic leadership are major drivers of rage quitting. 

Invest in coaching for managers who are coachable and cull your organization of toxic leaders.

By addressing core issues, companies can create a more positive work culture and reduce the likelihood of employees reaching a breaking point and rage quitting.

A Note to Employees Dreaming of Rage Quitting

Hollywood has done a great job of helping us fantasize about quitting our job on the spot. The perfect example of this is Tom Cruise as Jerry Maguire, who grabs Flipper the Goldfish and quits his soul-crushing job! In the end, he goes on to make millions.

Your story may have a very different ending. Here's why.

You won't star in a Hollywood movie about you and be paid millions of dollars to do so. 

You're now unemployed, and the likelihood of getting a good reference is slim to none. 

You may also have to explain to your partner or spouse how you just put your family's financial security at risk.

Here's What You Can Do Instead of Rage Quitting

When things start to heat up, it's better to take a few deep breaths before making a hasty decision. Think about what's really bothering you. Then, schedule a meeting with your boss to discuss your situation.

If, after doing so, you still believe quitting your job is the right move, you can give proper notice or look for a new job while you're still employed.

While the allure of a dramatic "rage quit" may be tempting in the face of workplace stress and frustration, resisting that impulse is crucial. 

It may be tempting to fantasize about a dramatic Hollywood-style exit, but the reality is far less glamorous. 

Burned bridges, tarnished reputations, and financial insecurity await those who give into their anger. 

The high road may not be the easiest, but it is the one that will serve you best, both now and in the future.

I hope this advice helps you solve the challenge of preventing employees from quitting on the spot or helps you as an employee, make a better decision regarding your exit from a company. Whenever you're ready, there are 3 ways I can help you. 

1. I'll help you create a company culture that retains talent and is the envy of your competitors.

2. I'll work with you to build a team of magnetic leaders.

3. I'll be your sounding board and coach you through the most pressing challenges that you're currently facing in the workplace. 

Send me a note to schedule a call.    

Best,

Roberta