What in the World, What in the World, Job hugging: Why nobody wants to quit their job

What in the World

What in the World

Job hugging: Why nobody wants to quit their job

4 June 2026

10 minutes

Available for over a year

Work feels more uncertain than it has in years. Layoffs, AI disruption, hiring freezes and a tough job market are leaving many people out of work or stuck.

So instead of hopping jobs for better pay or new opportunities, more people are doing the opposite. They’re staying put, even if they’re unhappy. It’s called “job hugging”.

But is it a smart move in an unstable world, or could it hold you back in the long run?

On this episode of What in the World, we break down the rise of job hugging with the BBC’s business reporter Emer Moreau. We discuss why it’s happening and whether sticking with your current role is a risk or a strategy.

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Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk

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Presenter: Hannah Gelbart

Producers: Chelsea Coates, Emily Horler and Ash Mohamed

Video producer: Baldeep Chahal

Editor: Verity Wilde