A 2025 quitting spree could be fueled by brewing worker resentment.

A 2025 quitting spree could be fueled by brewing worker resentment.
A 2025 quitting spree could be fueled by brewing worker resentment.

A new Glassdoor report suggests that the job market may see a surge in resignations, says a recent report.

According to an October poll of 3,390 professionals on Glassdoor, nearly 2 in 3 workers feel stuck in their current role, with those in tech and advertising being particularly dissatisfied with their job prospects.

Since 2022, the satisfaction of employees with their career opportunities has been decreasing, despite the post-pandemic hiring boom known as the Great Resignation.

Despite economists and policymakers stating the job market's strength and resilience, people believe it isn't working for them, according to Glassdoor senior economist Daniel Zhao, as shared with CNBC Make It.

"The reason why many people feel stuck in their careers is due to their lack of opportunities for career growth, advancement, raises, and finding a job that aligns with their interests and skills."

New jobs could reignite quitting spree

Despite the low quits rate and decreased activity around new jobs and hiring, workers remain pessimistic about their current jobs.

"The desire to quit is present, but the chances aren't available," Zhao remarks.

The Federal Reserve's interest rate cuts could positively impact some sectors, such as housing, real estate, and tech, in terms of their hiring plans for 2025, according to Zhao.

After pausing their hiring pipelines during the presidential election cycle, other employers are now reevaluating their recruitment strategies, according to Terry Petzold, managing partner at Fox Search Group.

With the election of a new president, there is increased optimism in hiring, particularly in manufacturing, transportation and logistics, oil and gas, and other industries.

More workers could make lateral moves for smaller paychecks

When workers are frustrated with their jobs and new opportunities arise, they may engage in "revenge quitting," as described by Glassdoor.

In 2024, job-switchers in today's market are increasingly accepting lower pay, with 17% of workers taking a pay cut when moving jobs, compared to 15% in 2023 and 14% in 2019, according to Glassdoor data. Managers and those who leave a management job for an individual contributor role are more likely to experience pay cuts.

"Zhao remarks that many individuals are returning to individual contributor roles after being managers, as a pay cut may make sense to some."

Some workers have shared anecdotally that they do not want to be a manager at the moment or have found it too stressful or not aligned with their future goals.

Layoffs have disproportionately affected middle managers, with survivors often taking on more responsibilities, which could lead to burnout and resignation.

Broadening your horizons through lateral moves can be beneficial, even if it is the same seniority or pay. It can help you learn and grow in a new environment and context, which can boost your career growth in the long run.

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