Have you come across the term quiet quitter? It is something that seems to be more common and is starting to become a real thing.
So, what is a quiet quitter?
A quiet quitter is someone who turns up for work and does the bare minimum and limits their activity to that which is in their job description. They will turn up on time, do the basics and nothing more. This type of person is often focused on their role and will not allow people to take advantage of them in the workplace. They will embrace more work if they are rewarded for doing it.
Why do people become quiet quitters?
There are a number of reasons why people may become quiet quitters.
Often it is because their employers are failing to follow the job description that the employee has with an expectation that they will do more than they are rewarded for.
Things such as micro management, poor organisational culture, lack of opportunity, bullying or incompetent leadership can also lead to employees effectively ‘working to rule’.
It could be that they are unhappy in their job and are looking for a way out.
They may also be undervalued or feel like they are not being given the opportunity to progress.
Not everyone is a quiet quitter
If somebody is doing the job that they are being paid to do then they are not a quiet quitter.
They are quite right to refuse to take on extra responsibilities if they are not being compensated for doing so.
Often these people have their work/home life balance right, or they are working to achieve this.
If you are labelled as a quitter then maybe you should ask which part of your job you have quit and ask for some clarification.
You’ll probably find that that request results in lots of squirming and excuse making from your boss.
What are the consequences of being a quiet quitter?
There are a number of consequences of being a quiet quitter.
Firstly, it can be very damaging to your career.
If you are constantly job-hopping, it will be difficult to build up a strong CV and you may find it hard to progress in your chosen field.
Additionally, you may also find it difficult to build good relationships with colleagues and clients if you are constantly moving on.
Finally, you may also miss out on important opportunities if you are not fully engaged in your work.
The benefits of being a quiet quitter
So many people suffer from presenteeism in their jobs.
They are first at the office and last to leave and often not very productive during the day but they are seen and heard.
The quiet quitter gets on with their job, doing what is expected and required without becoming involved in office politics, watercooler chat or taking on extra responsibilities without reward.
They are efficient and effective and often get more done in a shorter space of time because they are focussed on their work.
Quiet quitters are also less likely to suffer from burnout as they know how to manage their time and energy levels.
They are not afraid to take a break when they need it and they do not feel the need to prove themselves to anyone.
How to become a quiet quitter
You need to be honest with yourself. If you are constantly taking on more work than you are being rewarded for then it is time for a serious conversation with your boss.
If you are unhappy in your job and are not being given the opportunity to progress then it may be time to move on.
Be honest with your boss about your workload and what you are and are not willing to do.
Set boundaries and stick to them.
Do not be afraid to say no if you are asked to do something that is not in your job description.
Remember, you are not being paid to be a martyr.
You are being paid to do a job and if you are not happy with the way you are being treated then it is time to find somewhere else that values your skills and experience.
Quiet quitters are often some of the most successful people in their field.
They know how to manage their time and energy levels and they are not afraid to stand up for themselves.
If you think you might be a quiet quitter, then embrace it! It could be the best thing you ever do for your career.
The pitfalls of not being a quiet quitter
There are a number of pitfalls of not being a quiet quitter.
Firstly, you may find yourself taking on more work than you can handle and becoming overwhelmed. This can lead to burnout and poor mental health.
Additionally, you may also find yourself getting involved in office politics and other rubbish which could damage your career.
Quiet quitters are not cowards
A lot of people think that quiet quitters are cowards but this is not the case.
Quiet quitters are often some of the bravest people in the workplace as they are willing to stand up for themselves and speak their truth.
They know their worth and they are not afraid to walk away from a situation that is not right for them.
Remember that you are not there to be taken advantage of and if you are not happy in your job then it is time to find somewhere else.
Final thoughts
If you think you might be a quiet quitter, then embrace it! It could be the best thing you ever do for your career.
Just remember to be honest with yourself and your boss about your workload and what you are willing to do.
Set boundaries and stick to them.
And finally, do not be afraid to walk away from a situation that is not right for you.
Your career is too important to waste time in a job that doesn’t make you happy.
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