As it turns out, just like we can “catch” burnout from those around us, seeing others throw in the towel and move on is enough to give us the same itch to shake things up, too.

Employment Hero’s new Talent Insights Report for 2023 found that the number one reason cited for employees wanting a new job was other people at the organisation leaving – so-called “turnover contagion”. This is further evidenced by the fact that UK turnover rates have increased by more than 7.7% in the last four years. But could this be a good thing?

“It isn’t great if your company is experiencing a mass exodus of staff,” admits Robbie Bryant, a careers expert at Open Study College. However, it doesn’t always have to be a red flag.

As Bryant explains, there are many factors that come into play regarding the reasons people leave an organisation, from lack of progression in certain roles to more circumstantial factors, so it’s important not to jump to conclusions – or jump ship prematurely. Indeed, some industries, like hospitality, simply have higher turnover rates, with the style and flexibility of the roles often attracting those seeking casual or part-time work.

Turnover contagion: why we’re more likely to quit our jobs if colleagues around us leave