Myth: People Only Leave Because of Bad Bosses

For the longest time, every other week there is a post that talks about how people leave bad bosses or quit managers and not companies.

Now while I don't disagree with this, i do feel this is a bit too simplistic. Let me explain.

In an economic environment where opportunities are limited, I agree that people may quit driven largely by poor managers and occasionally driven by better opportunities.

However, in the current economic environment (or for that matter the last 10-12 months), there is a shortage of talent across industries and levels. This has meant that people are often getting crazy offers, at times even 2-3x of their current compensation. Many a times these offers are from bigger brands and in some cases and in some cases from well funded starts up as they compete for talent.

Attractive offers, including some crazy high ones, coupled with high inflation means talent today is moving must faster for better opportunities i.e. higher compensation or greater flexibility or both, than ever before. While some of these people may not be happy with their bosses, not sure it's the case with a majority of them. For a majority of employees it's purely about getting access to the best compensation, opportunities and working conditions - all of which has becomes a bit easier given that there is talent shortage.

Additionally, there is peer pressure as well with friends and colleagues getting substantial hikes. So even those who may be happy band content with their job profile, bosses and compensation feel the need to explore for the right options outside. There is nothing good or bad about it, it's just a phenomenon that is happening as we speak.

Like with everything, it's a supply demand issue that will last for sometime and not eternity. But in the meanwhile let's not paint the picture of every employee only leaves for they have they have suffered through bad bosses.