In 2023, Kathleen, a sales manager at a software company, faced the daunting task of laying off her entire team while keeping her own position. This experience left her feeling conflicted and anxious about her job security. After months of living in fear, she began searching for a new role. However, the tech industry’s hiring freeze, exacerbated by Donald Trump’s tariffs, has prolonged her job search. Now, Kathleen remains in a position she no longer desires, leading to growing bitterness and disengagement.
Trump’s trade policies have not only disrupted economic stability but also discouraged companies from expanding their workforce. White-collar professionals like Kathleen find themselves trapped in unsatisfying roles, contributing to declining employee morale and engagement. Last year, employee engagement hit its lowest point in a decade, and Trump’s tariffs threaten to worsen this trend.
An unmotivated workforce negatively impacts both employees and employers. Studies indicate that disengaged workers result in reduced sales, increased customer dissatisfaction, and diminished profits. Gallup estimates that low engagement costs businesses trillions globally, a figure likely to rise as more employees grow dissatisfied with their stagnant positions.
Furthermore, prolonged job stagnation stifles economic growth. A healthy job market requires mobility to align workers with roles that best utilize their skills. When this churn is hindered, employees remain in underutilized roles, earning less than their capabilities warrant. Since the pandemic, companies have struggled to stabilize staffing levels, creating what economists term the ‘Big Stay.’ Trump’s presidency may extend this period indefinitely, as uncertainty deters corporate expansion.
For employees like Dean, a customer support manager, and Laurie, an auditor, the economic uncertainty makes quitting without a new job risky. This situation not only affects those feeling trapped but also creates a tense office environment. Some companies, like Meta and Microsoft, are attempting to shake up the labor market by laying off so-called ‘low performers’ while aggressively hiring in other areas. However, this approach leaves employees who wish to leave feeling even more confined.
Kathleen, once an overachiever, now finds herself longing for the enthusiasm she once brought to her work. The ‘Endless Stay’ prevents employees from reaching their full potential, hindering overall workplace productivity and satisfaction.
— new from Business Insider