New Term You Should Know: Job Hugging

Job Hugging: When employees cling to their current roles out of fear of change—prioritizing security over growth, often stalling their own and the company’s progress.

What this means for employers today

With economic uncertainty and slow job switching, job hugging is reshaping workforce dynamics and engagement levels. While lower turnover may look positive at first glance, job-hugging can mask deeper challenges. Employees who stay out of caution rather than commitment may become disengaged, limiting innovation, internal mobility, and long-term growth for both the individual and the organization.

Quick Facts (Forbes)

• Nearly half of U.S. workers (48%) say they are currently job-hugging in their present role.
• Three in four employees (75%) expect to remain in their current role for at least the next two years.
• Experts note the voluntary quit-rate is at historically low levels (~2%) — suggesting fewer people are switching jobs.

Actionable Takeaways

• Rethink retention: Low turnover isn’t always a sign of success. Regularly gauge employee engagement, growth opportunities, and mobility to uncover hidden disengagement.
• Create movement from within: If external job changes have slowed, focus on internal growth through mentorships, upskilling, and rotational programs that keep employees learning and advancing.
• Be open and proactive: Communicate clearly about business conditions and career pathways. When employees understand the future, they’re more likely to stay for the right reasons—not just out of fear.
• Watch for “silent stagnation”: A stable workforce still needs challenge and development. Encourage continuous learning and fresh opportunities to maintain momentum and motivation.

Latest Update – Pay Transparency

Three major pay transparency updates just hit in 2025—Delaware, Massachusetts, and Cleveland, OH. Is your region next? HR will need to review and update job postings, be sure to communicate pay ranges, and ensure their staff is up to speed on all the regulations. Read all that HR needs to know before penalties start rolling in.

Tip of the Month – Stay Conversations

Schedule one-on-one “stay conversations” with long-tenured employees to uncover what’s keeping them engaged—or what might be holding them back. These proactive check-ins can reveal early signs of disengagement before they turn into performance issues or quiet quitting.

September 2025 Reported Data

(Per the BLS, the October 2025 Employment Situation will not be released)

The labor market held steady with unemployment and participation largely unchanged, modest wage growth, continued sector gains in health care and services, and a notable decline in temporary help jobs.

• Unemployment rate: 4.4% (unchanged)
• Labor force participation: 62.4% (changed little)
• Sector-specific trends: In September, employment continued to trend up in health care, food services and drinking places, and social assistance.
• Average hourly earnings: $.09 increase
• Temp help jobs: 3.0% decrease

References: Bureau of Labor Statistics | American Staffing Association

Above the Noise – Monthly Talent Essentials – Each month, Acara filters out the noise to bring you the hiring trends that matter most. Consider this your 5-minute briefing on what’s moving the needle in talent acquisition.