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18.01.2023

Why is 'loud quitting' a risky strategy?

So-called ‘loud quitting’ is a very risky strategy for many reasons. 

Firstly, by telling your employer that you are looking elsewhere is in essence you telling them you’re no longer committed and you may leave. This may cause a breakdown of the working relationship and in response they could actually take steps to dismiss you.

If you really want a pay increase or a promotion then you should simply tell your employer what you want, why you want it, why you have earned it and make a business case and provide evidence for it. You are less likely to get a pay rise or promotion if your employer really thinks that you are planning to leave the business. In other words, why should they give it to you if they think you will leave anyway?

Badmouthing your employer means that while you may be damaging their reputation, you are likely to be damaging your own reputation - as well as working relationships with colleagues and in the wider industry. You could also be harming your chances of finding other new employment to go to, as many employers will assume that if you badmouth your former employer, you could do the same to them if they hire you.

You could discuss your reasons for leaving in the private confines of an exit interview, this is likely to be a good way of talking to your employer about why you are leaving and any changes you think they should make to the workplace. For more serious issues, you may decide to raise a grievance. Whatever you decide, it is important that you raise any dissatisfactions sensitively and constructively with your employer in a private setting and through dialogue to try to maintain professional relationships. There is a saying ‘Be nice to people on your way up because you'll meet them on your way down.’ It is certainly worth bearing that in mind. Many industries are tight-knit and you are likely to want your former employer to provide a reference for you when you leave your employment.

It's a big decision to leave your employment. You need to think carefully about what you are leaving behind in terms of your pay, income, benefits and entitlements and how you would like to make your exit. If you are concerned about your treatment at work and considering resigning then you should consider seeking legal advice from an employment lawyer as soon as possible.

First there was quiet, now ‘loud quitting’ is the latest career buzzword that’s got people talking.

Whereas quiet quitting involves checking out and doing minimum requirements for a job, loud quitting – as the name suggests – is the exact opposite. It’s about making noise to try and negotiate what you want.

Simply put, it’s making it clear to your employer that you’re looking elsewhere, as a negotiation tool – opening up the possibilities of promotions and pay rises.”