It can be hard to tell sometimes when employees are introverts or normally quiet if they are considering leaving the company or not. These are the ’invisible’ employees that normally arrive at work on time every day, work hard at their tasks, and generally don’t make waves. However, one must not misinterpret this complacency as loyalty. Studies have shown that around half of all employees are actively looking for other jobs while they are on the clock. This can include your quiet employees who may not be actually doing work, but may be conducting a job search right now.

Spotting the early signs that a quiet employee may be thinking about jumping ship can make the difference between losing a valuable member of your team and retaining them for the long term. Here are some things you need to look for.

They start avoiding any new projects

When a quiet employee decides to check out, they naturally start thinking about their exit plan and not taking on any additional tasks. They may even start getting behind in their normal routine work.

They seem distracted most of the time

Employees who are looking for another job are doing so on their mobile devices, sneaking off into the restroom to take messages, or spending more time outside or in their car. They may be on edge waiting for calls from recruiters so they will seem a lot more distracted when you speak to them.

They stop being part of the team

When you are on your way out why bother being part of the team that you’re on? Quiet employees won’t voice any discontent, but they will start pulling away from others.

They avoid eye contact with you (the boss)

Employees who are normally loyal to the company may start to feel a little guilty when they are searching for another job. They may avoid eye contact with you when asked about their career or their goals at your company.

They start showing up late or ducking out early

Interviewing around a job can be tough, therefore sometimes a quiet employee will simply just show up for work late or tried to duck out early without being noticed.

They come to work dressed up more often

Another sign that a quiet employee is getting ready to leave the job is when he or she starts coming to work a little more dressed up than usual. They are probably attending job interviews on their lunch break or immediately after work.

They are MIA when you stop by their desk

With a quiet employee, you never know what is going to happen. One day you stop by their desk and they are no longer there.

About Staffing Resources

Staffing Resources, established in 1985, is a privately held Atlanta-based corporation and a certified Female Business Enterprise. We provide a wide range of full- and part-time employees to businesses, associations, government and non-profit organizations in the metro Atlanta area.