discontent

Definition

A state of dissatisfaction that drives change; the opposite of complacency. When people are discontented, they're motivated to demand better conditions, though management usually wishes they'd just keep quiet.

Example Usage

Growing discontent among employees about remote work policies prompted the company to reconsider their stance.

Source: Oxford English Dictionary

Related Terms

Beginner

compensate

To provide payment, benefits, or other consideration in exchange for services rendered or losses incurred—the art of making someone feel better about their suffering through the universal language of money.

👥 Human Resources

Beginner

retain

To keep employees from jumping ship to your competitors by offering just enough compensation, culture, or free snacks to make them stay. In HR circles, retention is the art of convincing talented people that the grass isn't actually greener on the other side. It's also what lawyers do when you pay them a retainer—essentially putting them on standby like a professional fire extinguisher.

👥 Human Resources

Intermediate

HR Business Partner (HRBP)

An HR professional integrated into specific business units to provide strategic support. It's HR trying to be cool and business-like at the same time.

👥 Human Resources

Intermediate

performance improvement plan

A formal document outlining performance deficiencies and required improvements, theoretically offering support but practically serving as termination paperwork. The corporate 'we need to talk' that never ends well.

👥 Human Resources

Intermediate