Quiet firing happens when management, whether knowingly or unknowingly, creates an environment that compels employees to leave. Unlike "quiet quitting," where employees disengage on their own, quiet firing stems from managerial actions or inactions. It might appear as blocked opportunities for progression, excessive workloads, or frequent negative feedback.
If you're unfamiliar with "quiet quitting," you can learn more about it in our blog: Understanding Quiet Quitting.
While some employers may use quiet firing as a subtle way to cut costs or avoid difficult conversations, it is often unintentional, resulting from a lack of support or ineffective systems for employee development.
Quiet firing can seriously undermine workplace culture and employee retention, an issue already challenging for 72% of employers. When employees feel unsupported or undervalued, the consequences can be far-reaching:
For businesses focused on fostering a strengths-based, positive culture, addressing quiet firing must be a priority.
Addressing quiet firing involves prioritising strong management development, effective communication, and a culture of appreciation. Here are some key strategies:
Many managers might not even realise that their behaviours contribute to quiet firing. Training sessions that highlight these behaviours and their consequences are a vital first step. At Strengthify's Management Development Programme, managers can learn practical tools to build supportive and empowering team environments.
Employees thrive when they see a clear path for growth. Research indicates that 82% of employees leave roles due to a lack of progression opportunities. By collaborating with employees to create bespoke development plans, managers can address skills gaps and empower employees to achieve their career aspirations.
Find out how our Management Development Programme equips managers to drive meaningful growth and development within their teams.
Appreciation is essential to reducing disengagement. Managers should regularly acknowledge their teams' contributions, whether through simple thank-you messages or more structured recognition schemes. Learn how to foster a culture of appreciation through our blog on employee engagement.
Constructive feedback, delivered in a supportive and private setting, helps employees grow and avoids resentment. Criticism becomes a precursor to quiet firing when it is frequent, vague, or unhelpful. Managers should provide actionable guidance and ensure that employees understand how to improve while maintaining their confidence.
Explore insights on delivering feedback effectively in our Management Development Programme.
Encouraging open communication ensures employees feel comfortable sharing concerns, whether with their managers or senior leadership. Managers should also seek feedback and actively address any issues raised. A culture rooted in trust and openness reduces misunderstandings, strengthens collaboration, and empowers employees to thrive.
Adopting a strengths-based approach can shift your organisation’s focus from fixing problems to unlocking potential. Managers who are trained to identify and utilise employees’ strengths are better equipped to create positive, productive, and inclusive workplace cultures.
Strengthify’s Management Development Programme provides managers with the tools to lead teams in ways that maximise engagement, performance, and retention.
While quiet firing can quietly erode your workplace culture, it is entirely preventable. By taking proactive steps to build a strengths-focused culture, your organisation can ensure employees feel valued, supported, and excited to contribute.
Ready to make a change? Learn more about how Strengthify’s Management Development Programme can help your business eliminate quiet firing and create a workplace culture where everyone can thrive. Visit our website today to get started.
If you want to find out more about our approach, you can join one of our Events, or you can set up a meeting or call with us so we can help you with strengths-based management tools to support you creating a thriving team.