Quiet firing is a real and common phenomenon where an employer deliberately makes a job unrewarding, isolating, or stagnant to pressure employees into quitting rather than being formally terminated. According to a 2025 HR survey, 53% of employers admit to using quiet firing tactics.
Experts identify five key signs of quiet firing:
Exclusion from meetings and projects
Shifting responsibilities without clear expectations
Diminished support from managers
Pause in career development opportunities
Return-to-office policies used as a form of quiet firing
Quiet firing often stems from a desire to avoid costs, risks, and formal termination. However, it can also be a result of poor leadership and toxic workplace culture.
If you’re experiencing signs of quiet firing, protect yourself by:
Voicing your concerns directly with your manager
Asking for clear expectations and defining your goals
Requesting feedback in writing and keeping detailed records
Advocating for yourself and taking action before options become limited
Remember, quiet firing is not a result of your performance but rather a failure of leadership. By identifying the signs early, you can take steps to protect your career and create positive change in your workplace.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/08/12/what-are-quiet-firing-signs/85192140007