Why I don’t believe in “The Great Resignation.”

The hot topic of conversation these days seems to be around “The Great Resignation” and how the end of the COVID-19 pandemic will affect us in the long run. Scrolling through my social media channels, I have seen more and more people deep in discussion about “The Great Resignation” and what it means for the people of Australia, our workforce, employers and employees, local businesses, leaders and the nation’s post-pandemic recovery.

I know, only too well, that this topic of discussion has left many people, particularly employers and business owners, extremely worried that Australia will follow in the United States’ footsteps and experience something similar to what has been dubbed “The Great Resignation.”

However, personally, I believe that “The Great Resignation” is a huge load of BS frankly and has caused a whole heap of undue stress to employers and business owners afraid that they will lose their staff after steering through the choppy waters of the COVID-19 pandemic for the last two years. I urge Australians against jumping on the U.S “The Great Resignation” bandwagon, especially if they don’t have another job to fall back on or if they are just following a “trend.”

So, what exactly is The Great Resignation?

The term “The Great Resignation” was coined by Dr Anthony Klotz from Texas A&M University and was in response to the huge number of US workers quitting their jobs from March this year, with 4.4 American million workers leaving their jobs according to the U.S Labor Department’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Summary. The media has been reporting that Australia is predicted to follow suit next year around March.

Why I don’t believe in “The Great Resignation.”

Yes, some employees will be looking for a new life direction, but I believe that Australian employees are more embracing change when it comes to their jobs, I think they are looking for more flexibility, freedom, work-life balance and empathy from their employers and leaders rather than wanting to leave their jobs. Some people might prefer to work from home now so they can pick their kids up from school or spend more time with their family, rather spending a couple of hours commuting to and from work or late nights in the office.

This is where great leaders come in, when you create a workplace environment that is welcoming, open, inclusive, communicative, friendly and kind, you will attract and retain employees. Because employees want to stay in jobs and with leaders who make them feel empowered and a worthy member of the team, so that’s why I think people have the wrong idea when it comes to “The Great Resignation.”

Instead of focusing on what America is doing, we should practice more positivity and focus on how we can keep more Australians in work. By opening up a conversation between employees, leaders and employers, we can prevent things like “The Great Resignation” from happening, scaring or enticing people into quitting their jobs and stirring up our economy and hurting our local businesses.

Author?Sonia McDonald

I would call myself a courageous leader. People have also described me as a cutting edge entrepreneur, high performing businesswoman and seasoned professional. I am also a caring mother, and impactful speaker.?

Following a forced lifestyle change in 2006, I joined the consulting world and discovered my purpose in inspiring people to learn and grow. With a flair for leadership and strong writing talents, I started the LeadershipHQ blog in 2007. It quickly became a must-read for leaders looking for a more people-centred way of leading.

With the desire to make an even greater impact, I established the LeadershipHQ consulting business in 2008 and then McDonald Inc. in 2019. Since then, I have helped thousands of leaders through my advisory work, keynotes, coaching, workshops and presentations across the Globe.

I believe we should lead with kindness and courage, from the heart, doing rather than telling. I am known for my mantra ‘just lead’.

I lead by example. But not content with words alone, I also inspire action, helping individuals and organisations grow through one-on-one practical coaching, keynotes, workshops and advisory services.

…I love growing great leaders!

I have helped thousands of good leaders become great leaders; progressing their leadership journey to become the best version of themselves and in turn, inspire others to join them.

For more than 25 years, I have been on the front lines of Human Resources, Leadership and People and Culture. I have held leadership positions worldwide. Through experience, research and study, I came to realise what it takes to be a truly courageous leader.

…I love to speak bravely!

I am committed to speaking bravely and authentically about my own development as a leader, my personal journey and career challenges. It is this relatable, heart-warming and humorous approach that resonates with my audiences and has seen me become an in-demand keynote speaker with a timely message of courageous, kind leadership.

Learn more about our Leadership Awards, Leadership and Recruitment Work today at?

LeadershipHQ - https://www.leadershiphq.com.au/

McDonald Inc. - https://www.mcdonaldinc.com.au/

Leadership Awards - https://www.outstandingleadershipawards.com.au/