A fulfilling career is not always about the paycheck. Research shows that feeling intellectually stimulated is the most important aspect of an employee’s job satisfaction. Other determinants were office friendship, work-life balance, power and influence. All of these factors rated higher than the almighty dollar.
Use of Skills and Talents
A satisfying position allows you to utilize your strengths to contribute to significant tasks, which can build a sense of accomplishment. Clocking in for the sole purpose of paying the rent can leave you worn out and frustrated. Looking forward to daily challenges on the job will keep you motivated and engaged.
Clear Communication
An employee is more likely to be a strong worker when he or she is given straightforward guidelines and expectations. An open-door policy encourages staff members to discuss workplace issues and concerns. [Tweet “A company that articulates its vision inspires employees to work towards the same goals.”]
Positive Work Environment
A hostile office is not conducive to others operating at their full potential. Many companies have policies in place that prohibit certain behaviors and offer concrete steps for navigating on-the-job conflict. Allocating time for relevant workshops and seminars is also beneficial in creating a harmonious team.
Pay and Benefits
A salary that reflects your education, skills and experience is ideal. Regular salary increases are also tied to job satisfaction, especially if the raises are based on performance. Medical insurance, a pension plan and other benefits add to an employee’s level of contentment.
Independence
The freedom to make decisions gives employees ownership of daily tasks. Rather than being micromanaged by a supervisor, workers who are trusted with substantial projects welcome the additional responsibility as a sign of their progress and dependability.
Valued Input
Coworkers will more easily mesh as a team if they are comfortable providing feedback. Discounting staff input sends the message that their thoughts are not appreciated and decreases motivation. An open-minded manager invites others to voice their opinions without fear of reprimand.
Opportunities for Advancement
Outlining a clear path to higher level positions helps cultivate healthy career ambition. Professional growth within a company establishes a sense of security and encourages loyalty. Offering incentives, such as continuing education programs, eases financial burdens and motivates employees to add to their skill set.
Work-Life Balance
Daily responsibilities that bleed into an employee’s home life can make them feel perpetually on the clock. If they are not compensated for their additional efforts, it might result in low-quality work once they are back in the office. Setting manageable boundaries creates room for a well-rounded lifestyle, which in turn increases job satisfaction.
No position is ever perfect, but finding one that is a good fit for a person’s goals and aspirations is crucial to career contentment.
You may also find Business Etiquette: Handling Office Distractions (via The Huffington Post) helpful.
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram