US workers’ overall job satisfaction increased for the eighth year in a row; we predict the current 53.7 percent satisfaction level will rise as the labor market continues to tighten through 2020.

Potential for growth, communication channels, recognition, performance review, workload, and work/life balance are some of the most important drivers of job satisfaction for US workers. Unfortunately, the satisfaction level for these components is well below average, creating a clear area of improvement for employers. That said, 53.7 percent of workers describe themselves as satisfied overall; they’re particularly content with their commute, their workmates, the work itself, the physical environment, and their perception of their job security.