In 2025, research shows that 1 in 3 employees are considering a job change within the next six months. With work-from-home flexibility reducing in some workplaces, many employees are reassessing their career goals, company alignment, and job security—factors that could lead to talent moving roles or industries.
As a leader or HR professional, being able to spot early signs of disengagement can help you act before key talent walks out the door. Here are five warning signs an employee may be about to quit:
1. Reduced Engagement
Employees who once actively contributed in meetings or projects may start withdrawing. They might avoid taking on new responsibilities or stop offering input during team discussions.
2. Frequent Absences
A sudden increase in sick days, late arrivals, or extended breaks can signal disengagement or that an employee is attending interviews elsewhere.
3. Declining Performance
Quality or productivity may drop, deadlines may be missed, or attention to detail may wane, indicating that the employee’s focus is shifting away from current responsibilities.
4. Disengagement from Team Culture
They may stop attending social events, avoid collaboration, or disengage from company initiatives. A loss of interest in team activities often reflects a disconnect from the workplace.
5. Expressing Career Dissatisfaction
Comments about feeling underappreciated, wanting new challenges, or questioning company values can indicate that they are exploring alternatives.
“Employees are increasingly evaluating career alignment and job satisfaction,” says SEEK. “Recognising early warning signs allows managers to address concerns proactively, retain top talent, and support team wellbeing.”
By paying attention to these signals, managers can engage in meaningful conversations, offer development opportunities, or realign responsibilities to retain valued team members.
Source: Independent research conducted by Nature on behalf of SEEK, May 2025.
