Job Satisfaction

Job satisfaction is one of the most researched variables in the area of workplace psychology, and has been associated with numerous [[Psychosocial issues - the changing world of work]| organizational factors]] ranging from leadership to job design. This article seeks to outline the key definitions relating to job satisfaction, the main theories associated with explaining job satisfaction, as well as the types of and issues surrounding the measurement of job satisfaction. While it is also important to explore what factors precede and is impacted by job satisfaction,

this is covered in a separate article.

Workers' Roles in Job Satisfaction

If job satisfaction is a worker benefit, surely the worker must be able to contribute to his or her own satisfaction and well-being on the job. The following suggestions can help a worker find personal job satisfaction:

• Seek opportunities to demonstrate skills and talents. This often leads to more challenging work and greater responsibilities, with attendant increases in pay and other recognition.

• Develop excellent communication skills. Employers value and reward excellent reading,

listening, writing, and speaking skills.

• Know more. Acquire new job-related knowledge that helps you to perform tasks more efficiently and effectively. This will relieve boredom and often gets one noticed.

• Demonstrate creativity and initiative. Qualities like these are valued by most organizations and often result in recognition as well as in increased responsibilities and rewards.

• Develop teamwork and people skills. A large part of job success is the ability to work well with

others to get the job done.

• Accept the diversity in people. Accept people with their differences and their imperfections and learn how to give and receive criticism constructively.

• See the value in your work. Appreciating the significance of what one does can lead to satisfaction with the work itself. This helps to give meaning to one's existence, thus playing a vital role in job satisfaction.

• Learn to de-stress. Plan to avoid burnout by developing healthy stress-management techniques.