When companies cut costs, layoffs often come to mind. But a new trend called “quiet cutting” is changing the game — employees aren’t losing their jobs, but they are being reassigned to different roles they didn’t sign up for. This subtle shift is becoming more common, especially in the tech industry, leaving many workers uncertain about their futures.
Read this article to learn more about quiet cutting.
Vocabulary Questions:
- Define “ebb and flow“. “…these kind of reassignments can happen for roles that have transferable skills like recruiters, sales or support that also have natural ebbs and flows in their work streams.” Make a sentence with this phrase.
- What does “put out feelers” mean? “I would probably start exploring options and putting out feelers just in case.” Use this in a sentence.
- What is the meaning of “retaliatory“? “But employees still have rights, especially if you believe the reassignment is retaliatory.” Make a sentence and give two synonyms of this word.
Discussion Questions:
- How is “quiet cutting” different from a traditional layoff, and why might companies prefer it?
- Do you think “quiet cutting” is a form of job security or a disguised punishment? Explain your reasoning.
- If you were reassigned to a role you didn’t want, how would you respond? What factors would influence your decision to stay or leave?
- Can quiet cutting be an opportunity for growth, or is it more likely to cause frustration and disengagement? Why?
- What’s your opinion on this: “I would probably view this as a sign of potential trouble while also appreciating the opportunity to remain employed.”?