Survey reveals widespread workplace disconnection, driven by insufficient compensation, unclear expectations and poor work-life balance
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico , Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- MyPerfectResume®, a leading resource for resume and career advice, has released findings from The Great Detachment report, uncovering a crisis in workplace engagement. The survey of 1,153 U.S. workers found that 79% of employees feel detached from their work, with insufficient compensation, unclear expectations, lack of recognition, and poor work-life balance emerging as top concerns.
This new report highlights a workforce grappling with disengagement, workplace stress, and a sense of loneliness and isolation, signaling a growing challenge for employers looking to retain and motivate their teams.
Key Findings:
- 79% of employees feel detached from their work.
- One-third say insufficient compensation is the primary reason for feeling detached.
- 44% of employees feel lonely or isolated at work "always" or "often," and 56% of those feeling isolated say it decreases their productivity.
- Workplace stress is at an all-time high, with 49% citing high workloads, followed by lack of career growth (36%) and poor management (31%).
- 76% of employees say their manager's engagement affects their own, yet only 22% say their managers align with them on expectations weekly.
Widespread Disconnection in the Workplace
Workplace disengagement is prominent, with many employees feeling lonely or isolated, unsupported and unclear about their roles.
- 66% of employees are "somewhat detached," and 13% say they are "very detached."
- 44% of employees feel lonely at work "always" or "often," while 49% of remote workers report feeling disconnected from their team.
- 76% of employees say their manager's engagement affects their own, yet only 22% of employees say their managers align with them on expectations weekly.
Key Drivers Behind Employee Disconnection
Employees feel disconnected for various reasons, with compensation, alignment, and clarity playing major roles.
- 33% cite insufficient compensation as the primary reason for feeling detached.
- 23% point to misalignment with their employer's mission or purpose.
- Other key issues include unclear expectations (14%), feeling undervalued (12%), and having remote work options rescinded (11%).
The Growing Stress Crisis in the Workplace
Heavy workloads and limited career growth are major sources of stress for employees.
- Workplace stress is at an all-time high, with 49% of employees citing high workloads as their top stressor.
- Other stress contributors include lack of career growth (36%), unclear expectations (34%), and poor management (31%).
The Cost of Workplace Isolation
Social connection is essential for employee well-being, yet many feel disconnected.
- 65% of employees say social connection is "extremely" or "very important" to their well-being.
- However, 44% report feeling lonely or isolated at work.
- 56% of those feeling lonely say it decreases their productivity.
What Employees Need to Reconnect and Thrive
Employees are clear about what they need to feel more engaged at work:
- 47% want better work-life balance or flexibility.
- 45% ask for increased pay or benefits.
- 44% call for clearer communication and direction from leadership.
- Recognition (34%) and growth opportunities (28%) are also priorities.
"Workplace detachment poses a major risk to businesses aiming to retain top talent and maintain productivity," Jasmine Escalera, career expert at MyPerfectResume. "Employees want to feel valued, heard, and supported in their roles. Leaders who prioritize engagement through clear expectations, fair compensation, and a strong company mission will see stronger retention and productivity," said Escalera.
To view the full report and more information, please visit https://www.myperfectresume.com/career-center/careers/basics/the-great-detachment or contact Nathan Barber, public relations specialist, at [email protected]
Survey Methodology
The findings were obtained by surveying 1,153 U.S. respondents on January 16, 2025. They were asked questions about workplace engagement, job satisfaction, and company culture. The survey included a mix of multiple-choice, scale-based, and open-ended questions.
About MyPerfectResume
MyPerfectResume is the leading resource for resume advice and expert customer care to help professionals elevate their careers with the perfect resume. Created to take the hassle out of resume-writing, the user-friendly program offers professionally crafted templates, expert tips, step-by-step guidance, and valuable career advice to effortlessly create an outstanding resume, CV, and cover letter. Since 2013, MyPerfectResume has helped more than 15 million job seekers create their perfect resumes and has been featured in Forbes, Yahoo! Finance, and more. Stay connected with MyPerfectResume's latest updates on Facebook, LinkedIn and X.
Media Contact
Nathan Barber, MyPerfectResume, (206) 900-2989, [email protected], https://www.myperfectresume.com/
SOURCE MyPerfectResume
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