How satisfied are you with your job? According to a recent survey by Right Management the answer is likely in the negative.
The company surveyed more than 400 employees in the U.S. and Canada and found that two-thirds are either unsatisfied or somewhat unsatisfied with their current job. Only 19% reported full satisfaction.
“Job satisfaction is an easily understood workplace indicator,” said Michael Haid, senior vice-president of talent management with Right Management. “We’re not asking about fulfillment or enthusiasm, but just job satisfaction…. Sorry to say, this comes as no surprise when it comes from workers in the U.S. and Canada, who’ve been giving their grumpy and frank feedback for the past two difficult years.”
Low job satisfaction is not conducive to strong work performance, observed Haid. “Like workplace stress, it may affect everything in the workplace, including engagement, productivity and even recruitment and retention. While employers to some extent are dependent on macro-economic trends, there are steps that may be taken to boost job satisfaction.”
According to Haid, the most effective tool available to management is to encourage employees to take ownership of their own development.
“Employees may feel stuck, but this shouldn’t mean they can’t grow,” he said. “Workers need continuing development opportunities to do their job well and to broaden their own capabilities. They should see that their employer is willing to invest in learning and training.”