Job satisfaction varies by age, with older workers more satisfied than younger ones

A new report from The Conference Board reveals a significant gap in job satisfaction between younger and older workers in the US. While 57.4% of workers under 25 are satisfied, 72.4% of those 55 and older feel the same. Overall job satisfaction has seen a 5.7% increase, the largest jump in the survey’s 38-year history.

Factors like interest in work, quality of leadership, and organizational culture play a significant role in job satisfaction, surpassing the importance of wages and benefits. Women workers have seen an 8% increase in satisfaction, but still lag behind men in certain areas. Workers earning six-figure salaries and those in hybrid work arrangements tend to be more satisfied.

Older workers prioritize manageable workloads and meaningful work, leading to higher job satisfaction levels. Gwenn Rosener from FlexProfessionals notes that older workers are more realistic and satisfied due to years of experience. Younger workers face a tougher job market, impacting their job satisfaction and overall happiness.

Workers over 55 share their experiences of job satisfaction, citing the value of experience, interesting work, and psychological coolness that comes with age. Despite the positive outlook, the potential for a recession and higher unemployment could impact job satisfaction levels in the future. Employers and workers should remain cautious in uncertain times.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Happy on the job? Your age could be why.