When employees perceive inequity, they may respond in several ways:
- Adjusting Effort: They may reduce their work effort or engagement.
- Changing Inputs or Outputs: They may ask for more rewards (like a raise) or reduce their contributions (like taking longer breaks).
- Cognitive Dissonance: They might change their perception of their own or others’ inputs or outputs to justify the inequity.
- Leaving the Organization: In severe cases, employees may choose to leave for a fairer workplace.