Most Employees Feel Detached from Work

The modern workplace is facing an engagement crisis. Employees are increasingly feeling detached, undervalued, and isolated at work, creating challenges for employers aiming to boost morale.  

A new report from MyPerfectResume reveals 79% of U.S. workers feel detached from their jobs, with insufficient compensation and a lack of recognition among the top concerns. Based on survey of 1,153 workers, the Great Detachment Report highlights the widespread disconnect between employees and their workplaces — costing businesses productivity, morale, and top talent.  

Employee disengagement is a growing issue, with many workers feeling unsupported, undervalued, and unclear about their roles. The workplace is amid an engagement crisis. When employees feel isolated, unsupported, or disconnected from their company’s mission, productivity and morale suffer. Employers must proactively foster alignment, recognition, and social connection. 

Employees cite several reasons for feeling disconnected, with compensation and lack of alignment being major factors. Pay transparency, clear expectations, and a well-communicated company mission are crucial for keeping employees engaged. When workers feel misaligned or under-compensated, their motivation declines. 

Stress is another significant factor driving workplace disconnection. Employees are overwhelmed by excessive workloads, limited growth opportunities and poor leadership. Unmanageable workloads and unclear career paths are pushing employees toward burnout. Companies that fail to address these stressors risk losing their best talent to competitors, offering better work-life balance and career progression. 

Social connection is essential for employee well-being and engagement, yet many workers feel disconnected from their colleagues and workplace culture. A lack of social connection in the workplace can lead to decreased productivity and job dissatisfaction. To foster connection, employers should prioritize team-building efforts, mentorship programs, and inclusive workplace cultures. 

Employees are clear about what they need to feel more engaged at work, including:  

• better work-life balance or flexibility (47%); 
• increased pay or benefits (45%); 
• clearer communication and direction from leadership (44%); 
• more recognition for contributions (34%); and 
• career growth opportunities (28%).  

Companies that focus on transparency, flexibility, and meaningful employee recognition will have an advantage in retaining top talent. Employees want to feel valued, heard, and supported in their roles. 

The report highlights a critical challenge for today’s workforce: disengagement is at an all-time high, and employees are seeking better compensation, clearer expectations and stronger workplace connections. This isn’t just a morale issue for businesses — it’s a retention crisis.  

When employees feel undervalued, overworked, or disconnected from their company’s mission, productivity declines. Employers who take proactive steps to enhance communication, provide career growth opportunities, and foster a supportive work culture will be best positioned to attract and retain top talent. 

As workplace expectations evolve, companies that listen to their employees and adapt to their needs will stand out as employers of choice in a competitive job market.