Increasing Job Satisfaction: How To Find A Role You Love

Do you have a job that pays the bills and keeps a roof over your head, rather than putting a smile on your face? Many of us don’t love our jobs, but that doesn’t have to mean watching the clock for the rest of time. It is possible to change career paths and to explore different avenues without handing in your notice or leaving yourself high and dry. If you’re keen to find a role you adore and boost job satisfaction, here are some tips and tricks to try. 

Think about what you want to do

If somebody asked you what your dream job was, what would you say? In some cases, the perfect role might not be attainable, but there may be career options that are similar that are viable. Think about what you want to do and how you’d like to spend your time. Do you have the gift of the gab? Can you see yourself running your own business? Are you good with children, or do you love animals? Are you keen to work in finance or do you want to get involved in sports coaching or local politics? Write a list of potential roles, and start researching how you can get into that specific industry. There may be jobs that require years of training and academic study, but there might also be entry-level opportunities or ways of studying while you continue to work. 

Take the first step

You’ve got an idea of what you want to do, and now it’s time to take the first step. This could mean applying for internships, registering with recruitment agencies, overhauling your resume or researching courses at universities or colleges. You could also look into gaining work experience, volunteering or applying for workshops or short-term training programs. Read job descriptions, look at different roles within the sector that interests you, and find out exactly what you need to do to get to where you want to be. 

Invest in yourself

Often, people have jobs that they enjoy, but there are factors that affect contentment and job satisfaction. Perhaps you’re frustrated at not being able to progress as quickly as you hoped, maybe the hours are too long or the pay is too low, or perhaps office politics are getting in the way. If these obstacles sound familiar, look for a way out. Consider applying for more senior roles with another employer if you want to get ahead and opportunities are limited at your current place of work or the atmosphere is unpleasant.

It’s also an excellent idea to invest in yourself and to develop and expand your skill set to maximize the chances of securing more senior positions. You might also want to explore related careers that could give you a better work-life balance. If you’re a nurse, for example, and your schedule is affecting your health, your energy levels, your family life or your mood, you could consider going into research or working in the community. It’s worth looking at courses at institutions like Norwich University to get an insight into the possibilities on offer. Online learning is increasingly popular, and it can give you a platform while you work. 

Focus on your passions

Finding a job that matches your interests can be a challenge, but it’s always a good idea to base your search on your strengths and your passions. If you would love to work with animals, for example, you don’t have to train to be a vet and have a resume packed with top grades. There are several jobs that afford access to feathered and furry creatures. You could train to be a veterinary nurse or an administrator for a veterinary practice or an animal charity, you could look for jobs in animal welfare or you could look for opportunities at a shelter or rescue center. You could also continue to work in a different sector and volunteer at a zoo or a charity. Alternatively, you could look into options like dog walking and daycare services or animal grooming. 

Consider going it alone

Many of us have frustrations that are not linked to the types of tasks or work we undertake. We might actually really enjoy what we do, but the people we work with or long hours might impact morale. If you like your job, but there are external factors that are getting in the way, have you thought about going it alone? You could set up your own business or go freelance. 

Freelancing is increasingly popular, and it gives you much more flexibility in terms of your schedule, your income and the work you take on. If you’re staying in the same lane, you can use your contacts to build a client base. If you’re toying with the idea of launching your own business, there are several things to think about, including how you’re going to monetize the venture, how you’re going to market and promote it, and how you’re going to finance the company. Undertake extensive research and create a detailed business plan before you invest a huge amount of time, effort, energy and money into getting your new project off the ground.

If you’re worried about your income, you can continue to work while you develop plans. During the preliminary research stages, it’s wise to look at the market, analyze competitors and create an ideal buyer persona. One of the most crucial questions to ask is, ‘Is there a demand for what I’m offering?’ A lack of demand is the most common reason for new business failure. 

How would you rate your job satisfaction levels? If you don’t love your job, and you’d like to get more out of the hours you spend at work, why not consider changing career, applying for roles with a different employer or even going it alone? It might be scary to think about making changes, but you might find that the job you dream of is actually more attainable than you thought. Research job titles and descriptions, look into training and academic courses and focus on your interests and passions.