Job satisfaction is closely related to the employee's perception of the workplace, as well as the atmosphere, the relationship with superiors and colleagues and the nature of the tasks performed. Of course, salary and other benefits play a significant role, but higher-order needs such as a sense of success, prestige, respect, belonging and self-fulfilment, among others, cannot be forgotten.
Is satisfaction more valuable than remuneration?
It is impossible to give a clear answer to this question because people have different priorities. For some, the key factor is the salary they receive each month. Others, however, say that the salary is important, but it is more important for them to do work that they enjoy and is appreciated by their superiors and colleagues.
Job satisfaction results from the completion of tasks, which in turn motivates further action. Remuneration is one of the so-called hygiene factors according to Herzberg's theory - it is essential for an employee not to feel dissatisfied.
High level of satisfaction - work as a hobby
Can work become our hobby? Of course! If one is passionate about IT, why not become a professional programmer? The key is to have the courage to follow your dreams and to believe in your own skills. People who choose a job based on their interests often experience greater satisfaction than those who are only driven by financial criteria. The strength of the intrinsic motivation of such people can be so great that it brings them professional and financial success.
Employee job satisfaction - results of satisfaction surveys
Research conducted by CBOS in 2013 showed that job satisfaction is most dependent on the interesting and meaningful nature of the job. Other factors, such as the opportunity to use competences, improvement of skills, stable employment and remuneration, were less important. The identity of education with the occupation and social benefits correlated least with job satisfaction.
The Labour Market Satisfaction Survey shows that organisations where employees report high levels of stress report increased absenteeism rates in their teams, staff turnover, reduced efficiency and effectiveness, and a deterioration in the company's image.
What influences job satisfaction?
U. Gros identified three groups of factors influencing job satisfaction:
- Organisational factors - remuneration, opportunity for promotion, a sense of security, the nature of the work and the opportunities provided by the company.
- Personal factors - age, gender, experience, personality and character of the employee.
- Social factors - the working atmosphere, relations with colleagues and superiors, cooperation with customers and mutual respect.
Job satisfaction and its impact on everyday life
Dr Jeremy Dean of University College London stresses that job satisfaction affects not only productivity, but also quality of life. He lists several elements that influence it:
- Daily problems - Small, often ignored problems can have a negative impact on job satisfaction. It is worth identifying and eliminating them.
- Justice and equality - unfair remuneration or a sense of injustice compared to other employees reduces satisfaction.
- Potential for success - knowing that you can achieve something at work is a strong motivator.
- Feedback - Feedback from superiors is crucial. Lack of feedback can act as a demotivator.
- Diverse work - Challenging and challenging tasks motivate development. Monotonous work reduces satisfaction.
- Control of employees - employees need freedom of action, which increases their responsibility and commitment.
- Company support - the employee must feel needed and supported by the employer.
- Personal problems - private problems can seep into the work and affect its quality.
- Personal predisposition - an employee's character and personality affect their satisfaction. Older employees often have more realistic expectations.
A good working environment and its impact on employee satisfaction
Inferring from the research cited above, it is safe to say that employee satisfaction is one of the most important factors affecting the quality of their work. Employers should nurture positive relationships within the team, which increases job satisfaction. Regular employee satisfaction surveys help to better manage human resources and respond to their needs and expectations.
How do you take care of employee satisfaction in your company?
W Group Meeting We specialise in delivering high quality training and webinars to help you ensure employee satisfaction in your company. Learn how to create a supportive working environment and increase team engagement. Don't miss out on the opportunity to develop your team and book your place on an upcoming training course today!
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- Simple rules and techniques for providing feedback - which is an online course where you will learn what we believe are the best techniques for giving feedback, which we have tested time and time again and use on a daily basis.
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Summary
Job satisfaction is the result of many factors, both tangible and intangible. For some people, it is the salary that is more important, for others it is the atmosphere and the meaning of the tasks performed. The key to success is to understand these diverse needs and adapt to them in order to create a working environment that is motivating and satisfying for all employees.
