What is the most important quality in a job? While some would answer high pay, others firmly believe job satisfaction is key. Flexibility in working hours is a bonus that workers with families greatly appreciate as they sometimes must rush away to care for their children. Few people enjoy hitting the proverbial glass ceiling and therefore cite growth opportunities as the most important quality in a career.
In a recent CNN Money survey, workers were asked the question of their view of the perfect job. Would it mean higher pay, more time off, and more room to grow? Would it mean money over happiness? The answers are surprising, yet practical.
High Pay and Good Benefits
There's no question about it, high pay is very important to workers. It doesn't necessarily mean all employees wish to make millions – it's simply to say people would like to get paid what they are worth and want to be compensated on the higher end of the salary scale for their specific occupation.
Benefits are another factor. Given the high cost of healthcare in addition to perks such as vacation and sick leave, the benefits package is counted toward the employee's overall compensation. According to CNN Money, 39 percent of workers surveyed said high pay and good benefits are the most important qualities in a job.
Growth Opportunities
Most employees would like to have a job where they can grow into increased responsibility and latitude in making key decisions. Unfortunately, many workers never get that chance and rather become stuck in their career with no place to go. This is especially true of middle aged workers who reach a certain level and are impeded from going any further. In CNN Money's career survey, 12 percent of employees cited opportunity for growth as the most important job quality.
Flexible Hours
Most employees would jump at the chance to avoid rush hour and telecommute, even if only part time. Flexible schedules are also welcome where workers can set their own hours so long as they get their work done and are available in-office during regular hours. While workplaces vary regarding their telecommuting and flexible scheduling policies, CNN Money reports a meager six percent of employees cite flexible schedules as the most important job quality.
Job Satisfaction
Naturally, one would believe that high pay would top the list for the most important job quality. It only makes sense – with higher pay comes increased motivation and greater employee productivity. On the other hand, if workers aren't satisfied in their career it changes everything and makes life miserable.
The old saying, "I'd rather be happy in a mediocre career than make a fortune doing something I hate," is true, and CNN Money has the proof. 43 percent of employees surveyed believe job satisfaction is more important than high pay, good benefits, growth opportunities and flexible hours combined. In other words, it's not all about the money – it's about how happy workers feel on a daily basis that makes all the difference.
Daniel Gansle - Daniel J. Gansle is the author of 2012: Day of Reckoning, graduate of Anthropological Studies and expert in ancient Mayan culture.
