In the contemporary workplace, a phenomenon known as “quiet firing” is becoming increasingly more popular than ever before. This term describes a situation where employers create a work environment that’s so unwelcoming and mean-spirited that the employee feels compelled to leave voluntarily. This strategy is one way to avoid the awkwardness and hurt feelings of a formal termination. Here are 12 signs that your company might be quietly trying to push you out the door.
1. Reduction in Responsibilities
Is your boss pulling you off tasks that you’ve been doing for years? If you notice a sudden decrease in your responsibilities, it might be a red flag that quiet firing is in your future. This can manifest as being left out of key meetings, not being assigned new projects, or having parts of your role reassigned to others. You may feel like your company is relegating you to the sidelines.
2. Exclusion from Communication
It’s normal to feel left out if you’re not cc’d on company emails. Communication is vital in any workplace. If you’re out of the loop on important updates, you may be getting slowly edged out. The same goes for any meetings you’re not invited to, or any department policies that you don’t get to share feedback on.
3. Lack of Feedback
Constructive feedback is essential for professional development. As an employee, you can only get better if you know where you need to improve. The sudden stop in performance reviews or feedback could indicate that your growth within the company is no longer a priority. Take this as a hint that your tenure might be coming to an end.
4. Denied Opportunities for Professional Development
Many people would love a chance to get a promotion at work. However, if you find that you’re constantly getting turned down for this growth, you could be a victim of quiet firing. This is especially true if the jobs are constantly given to others who are less qualified than you. If you find yourself in this position, start seeking out a new career at a place that will appreciate your hard work.
5. Shifts in Work Hours or Conditions
You may be used to working 40 hours a week, 5 days a week. A sudden decline in these hours, or any other unfavorable changes to your work hours, could be a sign that you’re on your way out the door. If you suddenly lose your cushy office with a beautiful view, this could also be a red flag. Ask your manager directly about these conditions before you jump to conclusions.
6. Increased Scrutiny
Suddenly, you find your manager over your shoulder all day at work. Being suddenly micromanaged or subjected to undue scrutiny can be a method of quiet firing. If you find your work is being excessively monitored or criticized, your employer may be building a case to encourage you to leave. Be on your toes.
7. Withholding Resources
Most jobs require laptops, phone extensions, software, and programs to be able to do tasks efficiently. A lack of these resources, and any other tools needed for the job, is proof that you may be on your way to being quietly fired. Not having what you need to perform your job can be frustrating and demoralizing. Speak up about what you need before it causes a dip in your performance.
9. Lack of Invitations
Whether it’s a trade show, after-work drinks, or the annual holiday party, an exclusion from work events is a telltale sign that you may be on your way out the door. It can start to feel like high school all over again in your workplace when you don’t get invited. If you’re comfortable, bring up the issue to your HR department. When the situation doesn’t improve, you may need to find a job that feels more inclusive.
8. Negative Shift in Work Culture
According to a report published by CNBC, workplace unhappiness is at an all-time high. Many people feel dissatisfied by a toxic environment, especially one perpetuated by management. When your work environment starts feeling this way, it could be a sign that you’re being pushed out. Your mental health doesn’t need the stress, so consider looking for employment elsewhere.
10. Encouragement to Consider Other Options
Of all the signs of quiet firing, this one is the most obvious. Sometimes your boss will give you subtle hints to start looking for employment elsewhere. After all, not all managers are evil, and they may still want what’s best for you. Other times, the approach is more direct, giving you a chance to leave voluntarily before you’re terminated.
11. Unexplained Changes in Performance Reviews
For years, you’ve got glowing reviews and accolades from your colleagues. Now you’re suddenly a pariah, getting chewed out left and right for your behavior. A sudden and unexplained downturn in your performance reviews can be a tactic to justify your being fired. Start applying around for other jobs as soon as possible.
Break the Quiet
If you recognize any of these signs of quiet firing, don’t stay hidden in the shadows. Speak up and let HR or management know about your concerns. You may not prevent a termination, but at least you can deal with the toxic environment created by these behaviors. Remember, there are always other jobs and career opportunities for you to pursue.
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Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.
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