What is a primary cause of employee turnover?

Job dissatisfaction is a primary cause of employee turnover because it directly affects an employee's overall contentment with their role and the organization. When employees feel unhappy with their job for reasons such as lack of fulfillment, inadequate compensation, poor work conditions, or insufficient recognition, they are more likely to seek employment elsewhere. Job dissatisfaction can lead to decreased motivation and productivity, ultimately prompting individuals to leave in search of positions that better meet their expectations or align with their values.

Organizational culture, while influential, often plays a role in job satisfaction rather than being a direct cause of turnover. If the culture aligns with employees' values, it can enhance satisfaction, but if it misaligns, it may contribute to dissatisfaction rather than being a primary cause. Similarly, employee engagement and training opportunities can impact job satisfaction and retention. High levels of engagement can mitigate turnover, while inadequate training might lead to job dissatisfaction, but these factors stem from the fundamental issue of how employees feel about their jobs. Thus, job dissatisfaction stands out as the foremost reason employees choose to leave an organization.