Survey shows that almost half of Americans are thinking about quitting their job

Thinking of quitting your job? You wouldn't be the only one.

Image by www_slon_pics from Pixabay

(CHICAGO) There have been many signs lately showing the burnout and frustration American workers have been feeling in their jobs. From restaurant workers to grocery store clerks to healthcare workers, every industry has suffered hardships from the pandemic.

The Big Quit

American workers are simply walking away from their jobs in staggering numbers. It's been called the "great resignation" or the "big quit," and it's happening across the nation, including in Illinois.

A recent article from the Chicago SunTimes featured the difficulties Chicago food workers have experienced and how some have walked away from their work. According to the government's jobs report, over 20 million people quit their jobs in the second half of 2021.

2022 Workplace Belonging Survey

And now, a recent survey by Ipsos reveals that nearly half of American workers are considering leaving their current positions. Data from the survey, run by Dr. Rumeet Billan, a researcher, speaker, and expert on psychological capital, pointed to a possible reason being a lack of sense of belonging at work.

Although 88% of respondents agreed that a sense of belonging at work is important and boosts productivity, many do not feel that way about their own jobs.

According to the survey:

• less than half (45%) of employed Americans feel connected with coworkers
• only 36% responded they work in an "inclusive" environment
• less than half (40%) feel that their vision and values align with those of their employer

Dr. Billan said in a press release, "Belonging is not a program or initiative, it is an experience related to social connectedness, feeling included, and being accepted."

Women, in particular, reported feeling lonely at work, with only 47% of women respondents saying they feel their contributions are valued by their employer and their fellow workers.

"Psychological safety is critical to creating a culture that fosters trust, belonging, and resilience," said Dr. Billan. "Without it, organizations can't thrive and will continue to face retention issues."

Though companies may make efforts to help employees feel supported, Dr. Billan cautions it's not an easy fix. "Well-intentioned quick fixes can come across as transactional or virtue signaling when this is not complemented with the effort to strengthen relational ties," said Dr. Billan.

About the survey

The 2022 Workplace Belonging Survey was based on a sampling of employed workers across the U.S. with oversamples taken in New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington DC.

Find out more about the survey on the Ipsos website.

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