3 Things that Make a Huge Difference in Employee Satisfaction

April 5, 2014
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Megaphone_LogoThe job market may be tight, but that doesn’t stop employees from leaving a company when they’re unhappy with their job. The deciding factor is overwhelmingly their quality of work experience. But employee satisfaction is something HR departments can impact.

While compensation has been used as an incentive for employees, research suggests that this alone isn’t enough to keep workers happy. Today’s worker is just as concerned with their job stability as their salary, and want to feel connected with their company. New entrants especially value flexibility and control over their time, leading experienced workers to reevaluate their relationship they have with their work.

The question remains: how can an employer create the kind of work experience that will attract the best talent and keep them with the company longer? Three aspects seem to be the key to creating happier, more productive employees.

First, employees want less panic and more direction from their employer. This comes in the form of clear strategy and direction from their leadership, and allows the employee to focus more on the task at hand.

Second, honest and open communication is vital. Annual reports lack the immediacy of a conversation, and often lead employees to be bitter over something they did eight months ago. While feedback is important, it should be given in an honest and timely manner.

Third, employees want to work for companies with a strong office culture—without office politics. Gossiping, squabbling, and complaining feed directly into employee dissatisfaction, and are corrosive to even the most seasoned employee. Try to implement a healthy organizational culture that promotes high trust and low politics.