A new Achievers Workforce Institute report released recently, shows that manager-led recognition has decreased across workplaces, while employees plan higher job movement in 2026. The institute said the trend is relevant now because rising attrition intentions and reduced recognition levels are intersecting across major employers.
What changed in manager-led recognition
The report stated that manager-led recognition dropped to 15%, down from 20% last year. AWI described manager acknowledgement as the strongest connector between employees and organisations. Only 23% of surveyed workers said they receive meaningful appreciation at work.
AWI linked this fall to what it called a widening “recognition crisis.”
Impact on employees and employers
Data in the report showed that 34% of workers intend to search for new roles in 2026. Only 25% said they foresee staying long term with their current organisation. AWI warned that weak manager-led recognition practices are intensifying turnover risk.
Employers may face major costs. AWI estimated that replacement expenses tied to attrition in the United States could reach between $1.3 trillion and $5.1 trillion next year.
Supporting data and statements
The report noted that manager-led recognition influences engagement, retention and connection. AWI highlighted that only 28% of workers who feel regularly appreciated plan to switch jobs. Among employees who feel undervalued, 71% are considering leaving. The institute said this gap “tells a story HR leaders can’t ignore.”
It also stated: “The takeaway is simple: appreciation isn’t optional – it’s a strategic lever for engagement and retention.”
Peer recognition was cited as another factor that strengthens belonging and supports workforce resilience.
How employers can strengthen recognition systems
The institute recommended several actions, including weekly recognition instead of annual gestures, empowering peer appreciation, linking recognition to organisational values, and regular audits to identify inconsistencies. AWI said manager-led recognition must be anchored in daily habits supported by training and frequent one-to-one conversations.
It added that employees who receive continuous acknowledgement are more confident in their growth prospects and more connected to workplace culture.
Going forward
AWI concluded that organisations must re-engineer recognition systems before attrition increases in 2026. HR teams, it said, have limited time to strengthen people-leadership capabilities and stabilise retention under falling recognition rates.
