Dangerous ‘quiet cracking’ trend at work you might be experiencing without realising

Have you heard of 'quiet cracking'?

From 'coffee badging', to 'chronoworking' there's all kinds of trends in the workplace, but the latest behaviour is pretty worrying.

Quiet cracking centres around burnout and being unhappy in your job.

Rather than a speedy decline in your wellbeing at work, quiet cracking refers to a gradual process, like a plate slowly cracking - you might be able to carry on using it for a while, but it's fragile.

So, if you've been feeling fed up or lacking motivation at work, you could be experiencing quiet cracking.

According to a survey by TalentLMS, over half of employees have experienced it during their careers.

Some 20 percent said they experience it frequently, while over a third admitted to having the feelings occasionally.

'Quiet cracking' is the latest work trend (Getty Stock Photo)

What causes quiet cracking?

According to Peter Duris, co-founder and CEO at Kickresume, it can creep up on staff slowly.

He told HRD: "Quiet cracking is sneaky; it creeps up on workers slowly but steadily, and before they know it they're totally checked out of their role.

"Quiet cracking may be caused by managers not providing enough support and recognition, leading employees to feel undervalued.

"With no progression in sight and a lack of purpose, employees may be asking themselves what the point of their role is. This often leads to dissatisfaction and a loss in motivation."

It's characterised as a slow burnout (Getty Stock Photo)

How to combat quiet cracking

Duris explained that to combat quiet cracking, providing support to employees is crucial.

Feeling undervalued in the workplace can often lead to a lack of purpose, which is a contributing factor of quiet cracking.

"One of the best ways to spot quiet cracking and any other problems is to give employees the opportunity to discuss any concerns with you in a supportive and private environment," he said.

"One-on-one meetings create space for you and your employees to work together, discuss their progress, and identify how you can help them reach their work goals."

Employers who provide enough support to their staff can help combat quiet cracking (Getty Stock Photo)

Meanwhile, Nikhil Arora, CEO of Epignosis - which is the parent company of TalentLMS - added: "Quiet Cracking may not be obvious at first, but over time it can wear down team energy, connection, and trust.

"But the solution isn't complicated. When people feel stuck, unheard, or unsure about their future, that's when disengagement creeps in.

"Giving employees space to grow — through learning, skilling, and real conversations — is one of the most powerful ways to turn things around. It not only shows people they matter, but helps them rediscover a sense of purpose and forward momentum, something we all seek at work and in life."