The 2024 word of the year is “divisive,” according to Glassdoor’s 2024 Best and Worst of Worklife wrap-up.
In Glassdoor communities, mentions of the word “divisive” grew 33% during 2024, which the organization said was related to a range of issues, including election concerns, toxic workplaces and shifts in company stances on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
“‘Divisive’ landing as this year’s word of the year stemmed from many topics that led workers to be at odds with one another throughout 2024,” the firm’s analysis said. “The main root causes? Frustration in the job search process or discussions around current events.”
Mentions of “election” had the biggest jump among terms, rising 202%. After that, “ageism” had the second biggest jump, increasing by 74%, as older workers cautioned others about the potential for discrimination and seasoned workers considered quitting their jobs but worried about returning.
In addition, mentions of “AI” increased by 42%, with a mix of reviews. Some workers voiced concerns about it, while others began to embrace it.
Professional engagement drove debate, as mentions of “ghosting” during the job search process — by either employers or employees — grew 46%. Return-to-office policies also remained a hot topic, with mentions of RTO increasing 7%.
Earlier this year, nearly 1 in 5 LGBTQ+ workers said they’d consider leaving employers that cut DEI programs, and 72% said they’d feel less included or accepted at work, according to a Human Rights Campaign survey. Looking ahead, HR teams need to “return to the drawing board” on how they present the business case for DEI programs, one consultant told HR Dive.
Amid political talk at work, about half of employees also said they want support for psychological safety and productivity, according to a Randstad US report. Employers can do this by facilitating open dialogue, offering resources to address employees’ concerns and communicating policies around holding political conversations at work, the firm suggested.
