In every office, there’s always that one mysterious colleague who suddenly changes overnight. They’re quieter. They’re punctual in weird ways. Their desk is suspiciously empty.
Before you know it, a resignation letter appears.
So if you’ve ever wondered whether someone in your office is about to ciao, Malaysians online have shared the most common early warning signs and some of them are way too accurate.
Consider this your unofficial workplace survival guide.
1. They’re suddenly happy to be at work
Yes, this sounds backwards.
According to netizens, one of the biggest red flags is when someone who used to complain about work suddenly looks… cheerful.
Why? Because they already secured a better job.
Bonus sign: They stop arguing with the boss and start saying, “Follow whatever boss says.” Peaceful, agreeable, zero resistance. That’s resignation energy.
2. Their attendance pattern changes overnight
Malaysians say attendance is the easiest giveaway.
• Rarely MC before, suddenly MC often
• Rarely late before, suddenly always late
• Comes late but leaves exactly on time
• Suddenly takes frequent leave
Chances are, those “appointments” are actually interview sessions.
3. Their browser history tells a story
One commenter put it simply:
“Early signs? Browser history: JobStreet, LinkedIn, updating resume.”
Some even disappear into private corners to answer calls. One colleague reportedly ran to an emergency staircase with a laptop just to attend an interview.
Dedication.
4. Their desk slowly becomes empty
Another classic sign.
• Personal items slowly disappear
• Desk looks cleaner than usual
• Suddenly hardworking clearing backlog
• Starts claiming every company benefit available
When the desk is bare, the goodbye is near.
5. They stop slacking & become too efficient
Ironically, people about to quit often become model employees.
No more “mengular” (slacking).
Quiet. Focused. Finish tasks. Go home on the dot.
They’re not trying to impress, they’re trying to leave with a clean record.
6. They suddenly don’t react to scoldings
Got scolded by the boss but just smiled calmly?
Netizens say that’s peak “I’m leaving soon anyway” behaviour.
No argument. No defense. Just inner peace.
7. The silent type is the most dangerous
Some people announce daily they want to resign but stay for years.
But the real ones?
No hint. No complaint. No drama.
One day, resignation letter appears. End story.
8. Or… there are no signs at all
Some exits are cinematic.
Frequent MC. Finish all annual leave.
Arrive late. Leave on time. Stop talking about work.
Then one day:
“Thank you everyone, today is my last day.”
Leaves group chat. Deletes contacts. Vanish.
Workplace reality check
Of course, these are all light-hearted observations. Not everyone showing these signs is quitting. Some people just… really like MC.
But if you notice several of these happening at once, you might want to mentally prepare for a farewell cake soon.
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