You’ve probably heard the phrase “quiet quitting.” But here’s the real headline: the world is full of people who are still showing up, but have mentally checked out.
According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report, 77% of employees globally are not engaged at work. Nearly one in five (18%) are actively disengaged. These aren’t just workers in a rut. They’re people whose ideas, creativity, and energy are going untapped, and that’s costing businesses more than we think.
When engagement drops, so does productivity. So does morale. So does retention. The domino effect is real, and it’s affecting teams everywhere.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need a massive HR overhaul to start changing things. In fact, one of the most effective tools in your engagement toolkit is also one of the simplest: recognition.
Disengagement Is a Culture Killer
Disengagement doesn’t usually happen all at once. It’s not a dramatic exit. It’s a slow fade. It’s what happens when good people stop raising their hands, stop offering ideas, and start doing just enough to get by.
Maybe it starts with missed meetings or radio silence on group chats. Maybe it looks like chronic tardiness or lower output. Whatever form it takes, it’s contagious. One disengaged employee can quickly affect the performance, and the attitudes of those around them.
And that’s the real danger. Because culture isn’t built overnight, but it can start to crumble fast. The key to stopping that slide? Make sure people feel seen.
Recognition Isn’t Just Nice. It’s Necessary
Every company wants loyal, motivated, high-performing employees. But those things don’t happen in a vacuum. They happen when people know their work matters, and when they feel personally appreciated.
This is where recognition comes in. Not the obligatory birthday card or generic plaque once a year. We’re talking about regular, intentional moments of appreciation. A quick “great job” on a team call. A thank-you note after a tight deadline. A shoutout on Slack that lets the whole team know someone crushed it.
These small acts make a big difference. Gallup’s research shows that employees who receive routine recognition are more likely to be productive, engaged, and committed to their company long term.
Want to take it a step further? Pair your praise with a gift.
Gifts That Stick With People
When done well, gifts for employees do more than say thanks, they reinforces your culture. It reminds your employees that they’re valued not just for what they do, but for who they are.
If you’re not sure where to start, we can help with that. Whether you’re buying for new hires, veteran team members, or your entire department, there’s something here that can help you deliver the right message.
Think useful. Think meaningful. Think memorable. Something for their desk. Something for their day. Something that makes them feel proud to be part of your company.
The best gifts aren’t extravagant. They’re thoughtful. They say, “We know you. We appreciate you. We’re glad you’re here.”
A Practical, Powerful Culture Shift
You don’t need a budget line for office nap pods to boost morale. You need consistency. You need follow-through. And you need to treat recognition like the strategic tool it is, not just a nice-to-have.
Want a happier, higher-performing workplace? Start by appreciating the people already in it. Don’t wait for engagement scores to dip. Don’t wait for turnover to rise.
Disengagement might be a global problem, but your workplace doesn’t have to be part of the trend. Start small. Start now. And watch what happens when your people start to feel seen, supported, and inspired again.