Job satisfaction is low among employed North Americans, according to a survey by Right Management, the talent and career management experts within ManpowerGroup. Right Management surveyed 411 employees in the US and Canada and found that two-thirds are either unsatisfied or somewhat unsatisfied with their current job.“Job satisfaction is an easily understood workplace indicator,” said Michael Haid, senior vice president of Talent Management for Right Management, which provides talent, career and outplacement services to Fortune 500 companies. “We’re not asking about fulfillment or enthusiasm, but just job satisfaction. Nevertheless data unmistakably tilt in the wrong direction. Half as many respondents say they’re satisfied with their job compare to those that are unsatisfied. Sorry to say, this comes as no surprise when it comes from workers in the US and Canada, who’ve been giving their grumpy and frank feedback for the past two difficult years.”Low job satisfaction is not conducive to strong work performance, observed Mr Haid. “Like workplace stress, it may affect everything in the workplace, including engagement, productivity and even recruitment and retention. While employers to some extent are dependent on macroeconomic trends, there are steps that may be taken to boost job satisfaction.”Based on prior research, said Mr Haid, the most effective tool available to management is to encourage employees to take ownership of their own development.“Employees may feel stuck, but this shouldn’t mean they can’t grow,” he said. “Workers need continuing development opportunities to do their job well and to broaden their own capabilities. They should see that their employer is willing to invest in learning and training. In that way, they may progress in their present company and ultimately move into a new job when positions become available. Step one is for the immediate supervisor to initiate a discussion about career development.”The survey of 411 employees from the US and Canada was conducted between April 16 and May 15.How do you feel about your current position?— 19% Satisfied— 16% Somewhat satisfied— 21% Somewhat unsatisfied— 44% Unsatisfied