Turnover rate isn’t just about who leaves, it’s a mirror of how well a company is managed and led. When we analyze global voluntary turnover across sectors, clear patterns emerge.
Services and consumer sectors struggle most with retention
- Retail tops the list, with about a quarter of employees leaving annually.
- Hospitality, consumer services, and consumer goods follow, though their turnover is roughly half of retail’s.
Technical and industrial sectors show better stability
- Utilities experience the strongest retention, with voluntary turnover near 5%. Notably, retail turnover is approximately 400% higher than that of utilities, and nearly double that of hospitality.
Why voluntary turnover matters
Voluntary exits reveal more than surface-level churn. According to Moody’s Ratings’ human capital report, a company’s ability to manage its workforce, through effective labor relations, talent retention strategies, and adaptability during economic shifts, directly affects its productivity, profitability, and ultimately, its credit quality.
Conclusion: turnover as a measure of leadership
Voluntary turnover offers a strategic signal. In sectors where turnover is high, leaders can benefit from strengthening engagement and workforce management. Access to the right data supports the development of resilient organizations with sustainable performance.
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