Previously on The Methodology Blog, we discussed why workplace rewards are typically not a good idea. Today, we’d like to address how to find happiness in your job.

Discontent in the workplace can exist anywhere. And though you may enjoy the work you actually do, it doesn’t mean you are immune to unhappiness. In fact, dissatisfaction can arise through unsuspecting factors such as workplace rewards that may seem harmless at first, but can become problematic in time. Because the truth is, despite the instant gratification that comes from incentive programs, the tactic undermines motivation and can actually make people miserable at work.

That’s why we’re focusing our attention today on discovering job satisfaction through meaningful outlets. Below we identify four potential sources for occupational discontent that can, if remedied, reverse stakeholder unhappiness.

• Job Monotony

If you are distracted at work or find yourself counting down the minutes until the end of the day, your problem might not be that you dislike your job. Instead, it may be that you aren’t being challenged enough. Take a moment to contemplate whether or not you have the authority to freely innovate. If you don’t, it’s time to talk with your manager about ways you can integrate this into your weekly “to do” list.

• Workplace Mediocrity

Do you feel scrutinized at work? Are you left uninformed about project goals and procedures? If your answer is yes, it is possible your office is one where mediocre employee performance is unconsciously encouraged. When stakeholders experience this type of environment, it’s easy to feel trapped. To improve such claustrophobic conditions, push back against micromanagement by talking to your manager about gaining freedom in your workflow and creativity.

• Underestimated Employee
  

If you feel dismissed by your manager or your team, it might not have anything to do with your ability as an employee. Rather, it could be that you’re simply disorganized. Being judged by a messy desk sounds a bit superficial, but the truth is, coworkers are less inclined to trust and respect you if your workspace is a disaster. So if the area around you is filled with junk, consider that cleaning it up will not only convey a positive message to those around you, but will also improve your productivity, motivation, self-confidence and satisfaction in your job.

• Career Stagnation

There’s a saying: “one bad apple ruins a bunch”. Bad attitudes at work are not just disappointing, they can be contagious. Even if you are happy in your job, working with someone who is miserable can affect your own motivation. Worse yet, dealing everyday with such a nuisance can actually hinder your productivity and can stall career advancement. Ask yourself: are workplace attitudes influencing your performance and fueling your discontent? If they are, it’s time to focus on building cohesion among your team members.

When you find yourself unhappy at work, the first inclination we have is to blame our discontent directly on the job we do. Yet, before we begin updating our resume and checking out the want ads, isn’t it better to first get to the root of the problem? Consider that doing so will help you identify whether certain actions can actually help your situation. As demonstrated above, by analyzing certain cues in the workplace, you’ll have a better understanding about the options you have.

To learn more about improving stakeholder satisfaction in the workplace, reach out to Slaughter Development today!