Are You Happy at Work? Six Questions to Ask Yourself

A little more than half of American workers are unhappy at their job, according to Forbes magazine. At Zions Bank, we’ve noticed our employees’ satisfaction depends on job security, health and retirement plans, career growth and community involvement. Other personal factors can play a role, but it largely depends on the kind of work environment your employer fosters. We’ve put together a list of six questions to ask yourself to see if you’re happy in your job or if you should move on to a better opportunity.

For a good clue that your job has longevity, find out how long your colleagues have worked at the company. If the majority has only worked for a year or two, it’s not very promising. A company that takes care of its employees and cares for their future tends to garner more loyalty from them. For example, Zions Bank just honored 354 employees who achieved 10- to 40-year work anniversaries. We also have 165 employees who’ve worked with us 30-plus years. Compared to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ national employment length average of four years, Zions Bank is more than double that — with an average of tenure of 8.6 years. These are telling numbers that our employees return the same loyalty that we give them.

It’s difficult to feel fulfilled in your job when your work environment doesn’t match your own values. Sometimes you won’t know until you start at a job and see how compatible you are with the actions and behaviors of your employer. Common values that most employees look for in a company include integrity, decency and privacy. Many of the values at Zions Bank correspond with our employees as we strive to treat them, clients and competitors with respect and appreciation.

Volunteering in your community not only helps others and improves your surroundings, but it may open doors for professional networking. When your employer provides opportunities for volunteer work, it adds a level of satisfaction to your job. Our employees enjoy outreach opportunities, such teaching kids how to save and painting homes of the elderly. Just last year, employees donated an estimated 100,000 hours toward community projects and served on more than 150 different nonprofit boards and committees.

Fewer employers provide matching 401(k)s these days. If your company doesn’t match, you’re missing out on thousands of dollars that could freely add to your retirement. Look for employers that care about their employees’ financial futures. At Zions Bank, we’ll match 100 percent of employee contributions up to the first 3 percent of their income, and match 50 percent of the next 2 percent of their income contributed to a 401(k).

Life-long learning plays a factor in feeling like your knowledge is continually valued. Having an employer who supports furthering your education will help you feel more respected at work. Since we’re in the banking industry, Zions Bank pays 100 percent tuition fees for all Utah Bankers Association, American Bankers Association and American Institute of Banking courses. College tuition assistance is also available.

When an employer values diversity, it can lead to more innovation, improved service and increased productivity. Bringing in employees from a   variety of backgrounds and skill sets helps build a stronger workplace. To cultivate networking and career development opportunities for employees, Zions Bank has created “diversity forums” focusing on women, military personnel, Hispanics, African Americans, Asians, Pacific Islanders and LGBT employees. These groups feature inspiring speakers and cultural activities that help build camaraderie and support for employees across departments.

If most of your answers to these questions were no, then consider exploring other opportunities to improve your job satisfaction. Be part of a company that has been recognized for its work environment and commitment to its employees. At Zions Bank, we were named as one of the “Best Banks to Work For” in 2014 by American Banker magazine.

Learn more about employment opportunities at Zions Bank.