Increase in Employee Attrition

Over the past 18 months, there has been a dramatic increase of people quitting their jobs. Numerous explanations have been given, including stress and burnout from their work, realization of what is really important to them and dissatisfaction with their current employer. But one that is more telling is that workers, especially professionals, have been unable to connect what they do with their sense of meaning. So they quit and look for it somewhere else.

I remember vividly about 25 years ago, an old, grisly partner who made a remark that was reflective of the time. He said that that if people want to find meaning for their lives, they should go to church or help with a community service agency. “But this is work. So do your job!” Fortunately, that sentiment has run its course.

Meaningful Work

People today want to believe and feel that their work has meaning beyond providing a paycheck for themselves and profits for the firm. They want to connect their work to their sense of purpose. This is the role of career mentors.

Brian Knight captured so well our need for mentors in a recent blog that I contacted him and received permission to share it with you. In part, he wrote:

“They go by many names. Mentor. Advisor. Truth-teller. Confidant. Noticer. Leader. Friend.

They’re the people who help you discover the truth and stay close to it. They’re your lighthouse in the dark. Your compass in the desert. Your anchor when you feel adrift.

People like this have unique qualities.

They care about you. So much so they’re willing to tell you things other people are too afraid or indifferent to say.

They understand you. So much so they can experience all your vulnerability and insecurities without judging or thinking less of you.

They believe in you. So much so they can see beyond your current circumstances to who you can become and the impact you can make.

They expect the best from you. So much so they’re willing to call you out when you’re capable of more and call you up to a higher standard.

They energize you. So much so they propel you forward into new things you probably wouldn’t have done on your own.”

Do you have someone like this in your life? Have you connected your sense of meaning to your work.? That should be your focus, not joining the Great Resignation in search of work that resonates with your purpose.