loud quitting

Loud quitting describes employees who are openly unhappy at work and actively work against their employer, rather than quietly doing the minimum. It can also mean leaving a job very publicly, for example with a viral video or post.

What loud quitting means

The term was popularized by Gallup’s workplace research. In its 2023 State of the Global Workplace report, Gallup described “loud quitters” as actively disengaged employees who take actions that directly harm the organization, undercutting its goals and opposing its leaders. Think open complaining, spreading frustration to coworkers, or undermining projects.

Online, people also use it more loosely for dramatic exits: announcing your resignation on LinkedIn with a list of grievances, or filming the moment you hand in your notice.

How common is it?

According to CNBC’s coverage of the Gallup report, which surveyed more than 120,000 workers, 18% of employees globally were loudly quitting or actively disengaged, while 59% were quiet quitting.

Examples

• “He’s loud quitting, criticising the boss in every team meeting.”
• “She loud quit with a TikTok explaining exactly why she left.”
• “Loud quitting hurts the whole team, not just the company.”

Loud vs. quiet quitting

Quiet quitting is passive: doing only what’s required. Loud quitting is active: showing your frustration and, at worst, damaging the workplace.

Related terms

• Quiet quitting: doing only the minimum.
• Rage applying: applying to lots of jobs out of frustration.
• Quiet firing: pushing someone out without firing them.
• Antiwork: an online movement criticising work culture.

More workplace terms in our work and money slang guide.