What is ‘job hugging’ and why are more UK workers doing it? We discussed this subject at one of our recent Pabasso - Peer Advisory Board Associates meetings - it is starting to become an issue.

According to the Independent News, “UK workers are 'job hugging' and prioritising security over ambition, as confidence in the jobs market has weakened since last year’s autumn budget, new analysis shows."

So is this good news for employers?

NO, if you have disengaged, underperforming people in your teams who would normally leave to pursue a career elsewhere.

NO, if you are currently recruiting, as job hugging reduces the number of potential candidates

YES, because job vacancies are down, so there is less competition from your competitors for candidates.

But here's the rub, job hugging benefits neither the employee nor the employer, but there are things you can do.

For employers: This is an opportunity to re-engage talent. Job-huggers may not be leaving, but they’re also not thriving. Investing in learning, recognition, and internal mobility can turn “quiet stayers” into loyal, motivated contributors.

For employees: It’s worth asking—am I hugging my job out of safety, or am I building towards something that excites me? Sometimes stability is the right choice, but don’t let fear freeze your growth.

Here are some facts from the Office for National Statistics;

UK job vacancies fell by 10,000 (1.4%) in June to August 2025 compared to the previous quarter, to 728,000 total vacancies.
This is the 38th consecutive quarter in which job vacancies have dropped compared with the previous quarter - government take note!

The unemployment rate is running at about 4.7%.

Job numbers are flattening or slightly declining. Total jobs in the UK are estimated at 36.8 million for June 2025. That’s a fall of 182,000 (0.5%) since March 2025.

So job vacancies are falling, the unemployment rate is stable or rising, and understandably, dissatisfied underperformers who might be thinking of changing jobs are staying put.

As an employer, you need to recognise these people and try and re-engage with them.

As an employee, you need to recognise if you are in this position and try and re-engage with your employer.

Doing nothing is not a solution.

Are you a Business Leader, who would like to interact more with other leaders of established businesses in the region, to experience the benefits that come from the shared knowledge, expertise and experience that exists in such a group?

If so, then why not come along to our next FOC Exclusive Roundtable for Yorkshire-Based CEOs & MDs on Wednesday, 3rd December at 10am in Central Leeds?  Click here to find out more.

We are always looking for leaders of established businesses, currently only in Yorkshire, the Humber and the North East, who are keen to benefit from the experience and expertise of other business leaders, we are also looking for experienced business leaders to join us and Chair more Pabasso - Peer Advisory Board Associates boards. Interested? Why not drop us a note or give us a call to find out more?

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