Job Satisfaction - Assessment

Are you happy with the kind of work you do? Do you drag yourself to work everyday? Are you satisfied with your job or is it a question that you would not want to be asked? Bearing in mind that we spend most of our day at the workplace, personally I feel that one should not be stuck in a job that does not yield contentment. I have listed a few aspects that might help you to assess your level of job satisfaction.

Growth Aspect : This is one of the key factors, without which there can't be job satisfaction. For some individuals personal growth in terms of skills and knowledge gained is only important whereas for some others in addition to knowledge, growth in hierarchy is important. In either case advancement is a key factor to fulfillment.

Money talks : Adequate compensation drives ones interest in the job execution and their performance, so let us not fool ourselves that money does not matter. There are a few among us who work not to earn a living but to keep themselves occupied, even if this is the case it becomes necessary that such individuals be paid as per the industry standard.

Responsibility & Accountability : Responsibility or may I say freedom of action is another important factor that needs to be considered while you measure your job satisfaction. Responsibility and accountability boosts most people's level of interest in the job.

Job Security: Stability and Security is vital to everyone and at all times. Security in terms of job is no exception. Insecurity in job is very likely to affect performance, morale and confidence.

Recognition: Let's be true to ourselves and agree that we all love to be recognized and appreciated for the work that we do. Recognition is essential as it helps increase confidence and self-esteem. It is highly important to know the outcome of a task assigned in terms of good or bad appraisal so as to help one to improve their potential.

Enjoyment : It would be wise if everyone asks himself/herself if he/she enjoys his/her work. Enjoyment at work comes with satisfaction. Do you look forward to going to work? Do you await results of some important tasks that you complete the previous day? Even if your job is some kind of routine work if you feel a sense of pride and achievement then you definitely enjoy your job.

People you work with : Being comfortable with the people we work with is highly necessary. Unpleasant relationships at the work place is in indication to start looking for a new job as it is very difficult to work with people you hate or can not relate to. One should not try to find best friends in their co-workers but it's important that you get along well with all.

Working hours & conditions : Long hours induces fatigue and tiredness in individuals, which might induce oversight in them and in such condition people make mistakes which take more time to be solved. One does and should have a life outside work. Long hours without breaks should be a strict no-no! If one is required to put in long hours make sure you are getting compensated or getting knowledge and experience that you can not afford to lose. Working conditions should be comfortable.

Perks : Perks last but not the least is another important factor in terms of job satisfaction. Your designation derived from your talent and knowledge should be eligible for some privileges.

Try to measure each of the above factors on a scale of one to five. If most of your assessment falls close to 2 or 3 indicating not happy, no enjoyment, no satisfaction it is time to move to a more satisfying job.