When it comes to what compels workers to stay in their current jobs, is satisfaction enough? A newly released survey from CareerBuilder.com indicates that job satisfaction may not necessarily equal job loyalty.
According to the survey, while two thirds of employees (66 percent) report being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” in their jobs overall, more than 2 in 5 (42 percent) say they regularly look for new opportunities. The nationwide online survey of more than 500 employees looked at worker satisfaction as it pertains to work/life balance, career advancement and learning opportunities, as well as the factors that have the biggest impact on job satisfaction.
Why Are You Satisfied at Work?
Of the workers who feel satisfied in their jobs, most (64 percent) said the people they work with contribute to their feelings of fulfillment at work. Other reasons contributing to high satisfaction include:
1. Good work/life balance: 56 percent
2. Ability to make a difference: 41 percent
3. Salary: 39 percent
4. Like the boss: 32 percent
5. Feeling valued: 29 percent
6. Feeling challenged every day: 28 percent
7. Quick commute: 28 percent
8. Having a flexible schedule: 24 percent
9. Job autonomy: 20 percent
10. Job title: 19 percent
“As the labour market opens up and new opportunities arise, workers are beginning to consider their options – two in five workers regularly look for new opportunities despite being satisfied,” says Rosemary Heafner, Chief Human Resources Director. Our findings show that workers want jobs where they not only feel they can make a difference and are recognised for their accomplishments, but have a healthy work/life balance. Implementing programs that meet these desires can go a long way toward incentivising employees to stay.”
Career Advancement, Training Opportunities and Work/Life Balance
Looking at specific aspects of the job, satisfaction levels vary, but remain positive. Almost half of employees (48 percent) report being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with career advancement opportunities at their current employer, and one in five (19 percent) are “dissatisfied” or “very dissatisfied.” When it comes to training and learning opportunities, 66 percent are “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their options, while nearly 1 in 4 (24 percent) are neutral. Only 17 percent report being dissatisfied. Most workers have little complaint in the area of work/life balance as well, with 71 percent of workers are “satisfied” or “very satisfied, while only 12 percent are dissatisfied.
Methodology
The survey was conducted among 1004 employees in the UK. The interviews were conducted online by Redshift Research in January & February 2015 using an email invitation and an online survey.
