Employee engagement in the United States has plummeted to a decade-low, with only 31% of employees actively engaged in 2024, according to Gallup’s latest report. This figure matches the levels last observed in 2014 and underscores a worrying trend of growing detachment, particularly among younger workers and those in specific industries.
Simultaneously, actively disengaged employees now make up 17% of the workforce, mirroring the challenges faced a decade ago.
The decline in engagement has significant implications for businesses and the broader economy. With the percentage of engaged employees decreasing by two points since 2023, this trend reflects a persistent gap between workforce needs and management practices. These shifts occur against a backdrop of organizational change, economic challenges, and shifting workplace models, making it crucial for leaders to act decisively.

Why It Matters: Employee engagement directly influences organizational productivity, innovation, and retention. Declines in engagement signal vulnerabilities for businesses, as disengaged employees are less likely to contribute meaningfully to workplace goals. Understanding the causes behind this decline and addressing key factors, such as clarity of expectations, workplace relationships, and professional development, can help leaders rebuild morale and drive better outcomes.
- Decade-Long Trend Reversal: Employee engagement, which peaked at 36% in 2020, has steadily declined, erasing a decade of growth. Each percentage point drop in engagement equates to 1.6 million fewer engaged workers.
- Young Workers Face the Greatest Struggles: Workers under 35, particularly Gen Z, report significant declines in fundamental engagement factors like clarity of expectations, recognition, and opportunities for growth.
- Industry-Specific Challenges: Sectors such as finance, transportation, technology, and professional services have seen the sharpest drops in engagement, reflecting varied industry-specific pressures.
- Economic and Productivity Paradox: Despite declining engagement, labor productivity has increased, driven by advances in technology and operational efficiencies. However, these gains may mask declining work quality and employee well-being.
- Leadership’s Role in Reversal: Organizations with high engagement levels focus on strengthening workplace culture, investing in management development, and aligning organizational values with employee needs.
Go Deeper -> U.S. Employee Engagement Sinks to 10-Year Low – Gallup