The Current State of Global Work Engagement
According to the latest data from Gallup, only 21% of employees worldwide now feel engaged with their jobs. This figure marks the lowest point since 2021, representing a two-point decrease from the previous year. The decline has resulted in a significant financial impact, with an estimated loss of $438 billion in productivity for the global economy.
Historical Context and Previous Dips
This recent drop in work engagement is the second instance in nearly two decades of conducting this study, with the first occurring during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. However, this time around, the decline can be attributed to manager burnout.
Manager Burnout: The Primary Cause
Gallup’s report highlights that the primary reason for this global decrease in work engagement is a decline in manager commitment. Since the onset of the pandemic, managers have been grappling with balancing new executive demands and employee expectations. The report states, “We are beginning to see the consequences of this strain on middle management.”
- Manager Commitment Decline: The proportion of committed leaders dropped from 30% to 27%, while overall employee commitment remained stagnant at 18%.
- Disproportionate Impact: Younger leaders (under 35) and women experienced more significant reductions of five and seven points, respectively.
A Pivotal Moment in the Evolving Workplace
Jon Clifton, Gallup’s CEO, emphasizes the gravity of these statistics amidst a rapidly transforming work environment, largely driven by the integration of artificial intelligence into daily work life.
“The ‘State of the Global Workplace 2025’ report presents a snapshot of a workforce on the brink of seismic change. The data indicates that employees, especially managers, feel disconnected—an ominous sign for navigating a future shaped by artificial intelligence. Simultaneously, tools that could enhance engagement and performance are rapidly emerging,” Clifton explained.
The Ripple Effect of Disengaged Leaders
Gallup warns that the impact of disengaged, overwhelmed, or indifferent leaders extends beyond their direct teams. Seventy percent of a team’s engagement depends on its direct leader. Consequently, if a leader displays disconnection or indifference, their team is likely to follow suit.
“When leaders in positions of authority are not engaged, their teams will not be either. This trend affects team productivity and, ultimately, corporate performance and GDP growth,” the report cautions.
Call to Action for Businesses
The report concludes with a plea to companies to reassess the role of managers, as their commitment is crucial for reversing the productivity decline and enhancing overall employee well-being.
