How AI Can Help Combat Quiet Quitting in the Workplace

Ed note: Posts published on From the Workplace are written by outside contributors and do not necessarily reflect the view or opinion of SHRM.

Quiet quitting—a term that gained popularity in 2022—continues to be a key challenge for employers, especially in hybrid work environments. Gallup's 2024 report reveals that nearly 18% of employees are actively disengaged, with another 60% doing just the bare minimum required to stay employed.

This disengagement is having a profound impact on workplace morale, productivity, and retention. For HR professionals, the question remains: How can we prevent quiet quitting and reengage employees? One potential solution lies in the strategic use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace.

While AI has been widely discussed in terms of automation and data analysis, its role in enhancing employee engagement is often overlooked. By leveraging AI-powered tools, HR teams can proactively address the factors contributing to disengagement and foster a more fulfilling work environment.

Identifying Early Signs of Disengagement

AI can play a pivotal role in detecting early signs of disengagement, often before they are visible through traditional performance metrics. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of employee data—such as communication patterns, productivity levels, and engagement surveys—to identify potential issues. For example, tools like Microsoft Viva Insights use AI to track employee well-being, providing managers with insights on workloads, stress levels, and collaboration patterns. This allows HR to intervene early, offering support and addressing concerns before they lead to disengagement.

Personalizing Employee Development and Feedback

Another powerful application of AI is in personalizing employee development. AI-driven learning platforms can offer tailored training programs, allowing employees to upskill at their own pace and focus on areas where they feel the most growth potential. Personalization in development not only enhances engagement but also helps employees feel valued and supported by the organization.

Furthermore, AI tools can automate regular feedback loops, ensuring that employees receive constructive feedback on their performance. For instance, platforms like 15Five and Lattice use AI to help managers provide personalized feedback in real time, empowering employees to adjust their work and stay aligned with organizational goals. This fosters a culture of continuous improvement and strengthens employee-manager relationships, which are key factors in preventing quiet quitting.

Promoting Well-Being and WorklLife Balance

Work/life balance remains a significant concern for employees, especially in hybrid settings. AI can support well-being by offering tools that help employees manage their time effectively and prevent burnout. For example, AI-powered scheduling tools, such as those offered by companies like Time Doctor, help employees manage their calendars, set boundaries, and maintain balance between work and personal life. By leveraging AI to track workloads and adjust expectations, organizations can help employees avoid the exhaustion that often leads to disengagement.

Real-Life Example: The Power of AI in Reengagement

A real-world example comes from the multinational technology company IBM. IBM has successfully implemented AI-driven platforms that focus on employee engagement. By using tools like Watson, the company has been able to analyze employee sentiments through surveys and feedback loops, offering targeted interventions for employees at risk of disengagement. This proactive approach has not only helped identify individuals who might be quietly quitting but has also provided personalized development opportunities, helping employees feel more connected to their work.

The Limitations and Ethical Considerations

While AI offers many potential benefits, it’s important to recognize its limitations. Over-reliance on AI tools can lead to a lack of human connection, which is essential for employee engagement. AI should be seen as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, human interaction. Additionally, ethical concerns around data privacy must be addressed when implementing AI tools in the workplace. Clear guidelines and transparency are necessary to build trust and ensure that employees feel comfortable with the use of AI.

Moving Forward: A Balanced Approach

AI presents a powerful tool to combat quiet quitting by providing HR professionals with the insights and resources they need to engage employees meaningfully. However, it’s essential to balance the use of AI with human-centered leadership and open communication. The key to overcoming quiet quitting lies in creating a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and heard. AI can be an ally in this process, but it is human leadership that ultimately makes the difference.

Shambhavi Bangalore Murugendra is an HR graduate student at DePaul University with a keen interest in exploring new trends and contributing to the creation of a better workplace culture; she previously worked as an associate recruiter at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.