Job satisfaction

Research from the University of Haifa found that employees with high levels of emotional intelligence are more dedicated and satisfied at work. The study surveyed 809 employees and managers in two public sector organisations and two private companies, examining the influence of emotional intelligence on factors such as organisational politics, work attitudes, formal and informal behaviour, feelings of justice, and burnout.

A 2008 survey by The Segal Company, a New York-based compensation, benefits and HR consultancy found that state and local public sector workers under age 40 focused more on career (job security, opportunities, and training) than their older colleagues and were also more likely to actively look for work elsewhere.

Both age groups had similar concerns about pay and benefits but, as has been traditional for government employees, pay remains less important than benefits for all workers, regardless of age. Nevertheless, satisfaction levels for pay and career were low for both age groups. Segal considers that these findings reflect the challenge of attracting and keeping new talent in state and local public service.

REHAN GILANI

UCP, Lahore