Stalled growth: no promotion, raise, or real growth conversation in over a year.

Recently passed over for a promotion, raise, or project they clearly wanted.

Their pay is below market for the role, level, and location.

They're in a high-demand role that recruiters actively target.

Noticeably less engaged lately: quieter in meetings, less initiative, doing the minimum.

A strained or distant relationship with their direct manager.

Signs of burnout: overloaded, running on empty, or visibly checked out.

Their work-life balance has clearly gotten worse.

Outside signals: a cluster of LinkedIn profile edits in a short window (the strongest tell), a refreshed headline or new skills, or an “Open to Work” badge.

A recent trigger that often starts a search: reorg, new manager, missed bonus, or a big life change.