The Phenomenon of Quiet Quitting: A Reflection on Workplace Disengagement (GP Topics: Society, Business, Economy, Singapore)

In an increasingly competitive and demanding work environment, the phenomenon of “quiet quitting” has emerged as a response to various factors that contribute to disengagement. Quiet quitting refers to a gradual withdrawal from going beyond the assigned duties and investing less psychologically in work. While the phenomenon of quiet quitting may be viewed as a personal response to workplace dissatisfaction, it is crucial to recognize that it sheds light on the deeper issues within Singapore’s workforce and society as a whole. 

Such a phenomenon is becoming worryingly common in Singapore, with a survey conducted by Randstad revealing that 35% of respondents in Singapore have quietly quit their jobs. This underscores a broader dissatisfaction with work-life balance, compensation, and career growth opportunities. These factors reflect a deeper societal concern regarding the quality of jobs and the well-being of workers. A society where a significant portion of the workforce feels disengaged and undervalued is at risk of undermining overall productivity and hindering social progress. 

One of the key societal aspects highlighted by quiet quitting is the pervasive issue of wage disparity and work-life inbalance. The feelings of unfairness arising from perceived insufficient remuneration can have profound consequences on an employee’s motivation and overall job satisfaction. When their efforts are not adequately rewarded, it not only breeds frustration and demotivation, but also perpetuates existing social and economic inequities. Quiet quitting thus serves as a silent protest against the inequities faced by employees who feel undervalued and unappreciated.

Quiet quitting also exposes the impact of societal pressures and expectations on individual choices and career paths. The limited prospects for advancement and a lack of passion for one’s work can lead to quiet quitting. Furthermore, when individuals are unable to pursue their true passions or find fulfillment in their work, the consequences are not only felt by the individuals themselves but also by society as a whole. The untapped potential and creativity that go unexpressed due to a lack of opportunities or societal constraints prevent the full realization of human talent.

Additionally, personal factors, such as relationships with colleagues and the broader work environment, also influence employee engagement. Creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where individuals feel a sense of belonging and camaraderie, can significantly impact job satisfaction and discourage quiet quitting. Moreover, it is important for employers to recognize that employees are multifaceted individuals, and external factors can have a profound impact on their work performance.

However, a prevailing sentiment among netizens is that the term “quiet quitting” is both unnecessary and unfair. The criticism directed at this phrase stems from the perception that it paints a negative picture of employees who choose to focus on achieving a reasonable work-life balance. Many have argued that it is simply about employees doing their jobs and not going above and beyond, and the term appears to undermine their efforts and commitment. Netizens contend that this perspective diminishes the importance of personal well-being and the pursuit of a fulfilling life beyond the confines of the workplace. They question the need to label this behavior, viewing it as a manipulative tactic employed by employers to coerce workers into shouldering additional responsibilities without proper compensation. Indeed, employees should not be penalized for choosing to focus on other aspects of their lives and fulfilling their basic job responsibilities. In Singapore’s competitive work culture, granting employees the right to reject after-hours meetings is a crucial step towards fostering a healthy work-life balance. While job responsibilities are important, it is equally vital to consider the well-being of employees and prevent burnout. Designing clear and measurable performance indicators can help alleviate disputes over whether employees are fulfilling their roles effectively. Nevertheless, it is also paradoxical that anyone who is truly fulfilling the duties stated in their job scope would identify as a “quiet quitter” in the first place.

Overall, the discussion around quiet quitting raises important considerations for both employees and employers. While employees have the right to prioritize their work-life balance and set boundaries, it is crucial for individuals to maintain a level of psychological engagement in their work as this ensures that they fulfill their responsibilities and maintain a sense of dedication. In fact, by continuing to demonstrate diligence, initiative and other positive traits, it may be a matter of time that their contributions are recognised, either by present or prospective employers. The drive to seek greater knowledge and hone skills beyond the expected job scope can also be incredibly helpful in the long run. Employers, in turn, should create an environment that fosters both employee well-being and commitment to the job. More attention should also be paid to ensuring employee recognition and rewards are determined by work performance and not irrelevant factors like prior education attainment that have no bearing on present work outcomes. After all, quiet quitters will not make a successful company.

To mitigate this worrying phenomenon, society as a whole needs to reevaluate its values and perceptions regarding work. Encouraging a culture that recognizes and celebrates diverse talents, passions, and career choices can contribute to a more fulfilling and inclusive work landscape. By promoting a society that values individual well-being, supports work-life balance, and strives for equitable opportunities, we can mitigate the prevalence of quiet quitting and foster a more engaged and productive workforce.

For A Level GP Paper 1 as well as Paper 2 Application Question, students need to be well-informed on the current attitudes and contexts of our Singapore society. While we have always acknowledged that our workplace is more stressful than most countries, such a phenomenon sheds light on the true severity of this issue, with statistics and case studies making it more visible than ever. Beyond academics, students must learn how to cope and balance their work and personal lives from an early age, as well as develop the right attitudes, lest they become part of the growing population of quiet quitters.