How to have Job Satisfaction at Work

Job satisfaction in the workplace

As we have seen on YouTube recently, some fed up workers take extreme measures to escape their workplaces. But the recent emergency slide case is not the only example of an unsatisfied employee that could benefit from a job change.For many employees their workplace is no longer a satisfying place. They may not be content with their job responsibilities, their relationship with their manager, their relationship with colleagues, or their relationship with clients or customers.

For others, the economic downturn was a big factor. Many people worked harder and longer during the GFC, and where such efforts are not recognised satisfaction levels are at record lows.While job numbers, salaries and the general economic outlook are now healthy, there are many candidates who come to us feeling that they need a change for the better.

While it’s only in extreme cases that people take such drastic actions as escaping on an emergency slide, the real danger for employers with unsatisfied workers is a significant drop in their discretionary effort. If employees are satisfied in their job, they are far more likely to put in additional contributions, over and above their basic job descriptions. This difference between how well they perform and how well they are capable of performing can have huge ramifications for businesses, particularly in our competitive and strengthening economy.

If you are not satisfied in your job, perhaps it’s time you made a change. Job numbers are strong and career-advancing opportunities are available. This means you can look for an organisation offering the management style or culture in which you can flourish, with the responsibilities, opportunities and people that will help you become satisfied at work.

But before jumping ship, my advice would be to revisit your career plan. Career planning is essential to achieving success in your chosen career. Whether you are aiming to be a bookkeeper in a small business or the finance director of a multi-national corporation, you must know in which direction you are headed and what is required of you to achieve your goal.

Planning is a basic, yet key principle used by successful business people. Plans are formulated on a regular basis to control direction, make the best use of resources and measure progress or results.

Think of your career plan along the lines of a business plan. The key issues to cover are:
•    What are my long-term career objectives?
•    What will I want to get out of my job in the next five years or so?
•    Do I need to study? If so, what for?
•    What are my individual priorities?

These priorities and objectives may change over time and of course you need to check up from time to time to make sure you are on track.

Article contributed by Hays, the world’s leading recruiting experts in qualified, professional and skilled people.  Read more of How to have Job Satisfaction at Work and get the rest of career advice you’re gonna need to help you enjoy and be satisfied with your job.