Overview

• The U.S. quits rate has hovered near 2%, the lowest sustained level since 2016, reflecting a broad shift toward staying put.
• Hiring has slowed significantly, with July payrolls up about 73,000 and announced 2025 layoffs nearing 800,000, reinforcing worker caution.
• Economists point to uncertainty, inflation pressures and automation fears, and many companies are retaining staff rather than expanding headcount.
• Staying put carries risks such as slower wage growth and reduced marketability, with job-to-job raises around 7% and fewer openings for recent graduates.
• Career experts recommend “pivoting in place” by seeking internal promotions, taking on stretch work, building skills and networks, and cautiously testing the market, while noting hiring could improve if rate cuts occur.