One of the top factors for increased job satisfaction is, somewhat surprisingly, not your salary. In fact, it has nothing to do with how that job benefits you (i.e. time off, bonuses, etc.). It’s actually if you feel that you “help” people in your job. Jobs where you have a feeling of serving and supporting others (whether it’s a customer, community, or co-worker) have the highest job satisfaction and are rated as “meaningful”. When we experience our work as meaningful, we’re more engaged, feel more valued, and more satisfied. 

Helping Others Helps You

Helping others isn’t the only route to a meaningful career, but it’s one of the most powerful. In research and surveys there’s growing evidence that helping others is a key ingredient for not only job satisfaction, but more generally, life satisfaction. Serving others can improve well-being, reduce stress and depression, and improve self-esteem. If your current role doesn’t necessarily line up with opportunities to serve others, you can fulfill this area outside of work, and get the same positive mental health benefits. Consider volunteering in your community (if you’re unsure where to start – ask friends, look for volunteer match fairs hosted by your city/county, or search online for local opportunities).

Find Meaning

If you are seeking to find connection, purpose, and meaning in your career, consider how you serve others in your work. Beyond service, you might explore what else feels meaningful to you. Reflect on your work day or week, and ask yourself “what did I find meaningful?”. As you explore meaning and purpose in your career, work becomes more than just a means to an end; it becomes a platform for personal growth, contribution, and impact.