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Many Americans have experienced job dissatisfaction, assuming their job is the wrong fit, but a new study suggests some jobs are fundamentally unsatisfactory.

According to a recent Gallup survey of more than 18,000 workers, only 40% of Americans have“quality jobs.” This is true across diverse industries, demographics and types of work.

But what exactly does that mean - and how can you find out if you're one of the lucky people with a quality job? And what should you do if you aren't? (1)

The 5 measures of a“quality job”

The Gallup study measured job satisfaction across five areas: fair pay and benefits, a safe and respectful workplace, opportunities for advancement, having a voice in decisions and having some control over work schedules.

A“quality job” had to meet a minimum threshold in at least three of those categories.

Financial well-being

The researchers set a“quality job” income of $5,287/month (calculated as 300% of the $1,763 federal poverty threshold for a full-time worker with a family of two).

Fewer than half (48%) of the 18,000 respondents reported earning more than that $5,287 benchmark, while nearly one in three (29%) admitted that they were struggling financially.

But the study noted that a livable wage will vary depending on where someone lives, family size and debt:“Two workers earning the same wage may experience different financial realities.”

Workplace culture and safety

The researchers defined workplace culture and safety as a safe, respectful environment free from discrimination or harassment.

On a positive note, 83% of respondents strongly or somewhat agreed that they were treated with respect in their job.

But levels of respect varied by industry and demographics. Workers with university degrees were the most likely to strongly agree that they felt respected at work.

Concerningly, one in four reported being treated unfairly or discriminated against because of their identity.

Growth and development

One in four said they had no opportunities for promotion or advancement in their current roles.

The study found such opportunities were more common in larger organizations with 1,000 or more employees.

Agency and voice

Agency and voice was associated with a worker having influence over decisions that impacted them directly, like pay, working conditions and technology.

Almost half (48%) of respondents reported limited influence on working conditions of concern, like safety and breaks.

Not surprisingly, lack of agency was associated with lower well-being and job satisfaction, higher burnout and increased intention to leave a job or join a union.

Work structure and autonomy

The researchers polled workers on whether they had a predictable schedule, manageable workload, and control over when and how work gets done.

A full 71% or respondents said they strongly or somewhat agreed that they had control over how they carried out their work.

But more than 6 in 10 people said they lacked predictable, stable schedules - particularly part-time workers and those without university degrees.

Does your job measure up?

If you're feeling unsatisfied in your job, consider applying the same five benchmarks the Gallup researchers did to your own job.

Remember, your job must satisfy basic standards in at least three of the categories.

If certain criteria elicit a strong emotional response, there may be aspects of your job that are impacting your life negatively.

If you are unionized, you can speak with union reps about these issues. If your workplace is not unionized, you could discuss your concerns with management or human resources, but employees who feel vulnerable may not find that this is a good option for them

It may be time to start job searching.

Decide what aspects of workplace culture are important to you and use that information to inform your search.

Companies often outline their values and mission on their website. If you're looking at a unionized workplace, search to see if collective agreements are posted on the union's website.

Research prospective employers online. Search for employee reviews or reach out to someone who works there - for example, via LinkedIn - to see if they would feel comfortable sharing their experience.

Keep in mind that it's a tough labor market. As of August, 25.7% of job seekers had been unemployed at least 27 weeks - the highest rate since February 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (3)

Don't hesitate to get help through employment agencies, headhunters or recruiters, or checking if your alma mater offers career help for alumni. The Department of Labor offers online resources at My Next Move, including links to local employment centers.

If you do decide to leave your job, consider staying in your position until you have secured a new job, given the current labor market.

You may also want to consult with a financial advisor to plan your job strategy so that you come out ahead in job satisfaction and financial security.

Article sources

We rely only on vetted sources and credible third-party reporting. For details, see our editorial ethics and guidelines.

Gallup (1 ); CNN U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2 )

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

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