Quiet cracking hits 54% of U.S. workers, threatening small business productivity

A new workplace phenomenon called “quiet cracking” is quietly affecting more than half of U.S. employees, according to a TalentLMS survey of 1,000 workers. Unlike burnout, which stems from chronic stress and exhaustion, quiet cracking involves persistent feelings of unhappiness at work that may lead to disengagement, lower performance, and a desire to quit.

The survey found that 54% of employees experience quiet cracking, which often goes unnoticed by managers and coworkers because it doesn’t always involve dramatic performance declines or visible fatigue. TalentLMS defines it as a state where employees “remain in their jobs and report feeling some kind of workplace funk.”

Key drivers of quiet cracking include job insecurity, economic pressure, workload stress, and poor management. The survey found that while most employees feel secure, 18% are uncertain about their long-term job stability. More than 60% of all employees feel their managers listen to them, but this drops to 47% among those experiencing quiet cracking. Employees facing this phenomenon are also 29% less likely to receive training and 68% less likely to feel recognized or valued.

For small businesses, quiet cracking can erode productivity, creativity, loyalty, and overall engagement. Disconnected or unsupported employees are less likely to volunteer for extra responsibilities, contribute ideas, or participate in company events, which can potentially slow operations and increase turnover.

TalentLMS emphasizes that quiet cracking “isn’t just a well-being issue—it’s a business issue. When employees quietly crack, they take productivity, creativity, and loyalty with them.”

The survey also highlights strategies to prevent or reverse quiet cracking:

• Focus on employee development: Providing training opportunities increases job security and boosts employee confidence.

• Educate managers: Leadership training in empathy and listening, regular check-ins, and manager engagement metrics help build a supportive workplace culture.

• Recognize employees: Regular recognition, spotlights, and peer-to-peer shoutouts reinforce the value and contributions of employees.

• Set clear expectations: Review job descriptions, manage workloads, and provide stress management resources to prevent confusion and overwhelm.

By addressing quiet cracking proactively, small business owners can safeguard engagement, productivity, and employee loyalty while fostering a healthier workplace.