Final answer:
Research suggests that work-content factor, including variety, difficulty level, and role clarity, is a strong predictor of job satisfaction. Additionally, the relationship with one's manager has a significant impact on job satisfaction, as managers have the power to influence opportunities for growth and development. It is important to prioritize building a positive working relationship with one's manager.
Step-by-step explanation:
Research has suggested that the work-content factor, which includes variety, difficulty level, and role clarity of the job, is the most strongly predictive factor of overall job satisfaction. In contrast, there is only a weak correlation between pay level and job satisfaction. Judge et al. (2010) suggest that individuals adjust or adapt to higher pay levels: Higher pay no longer provides the satisfaction the individual may have initially felt when their salary increased.
The person who has the most influence in your career and growth satisfaction on the job is your manager. Your manager plays a significant role, providing you with opportunities for skill development- including approval for training(s). Your manager's recommendations can impact decisions about raises, promotions, and job references. This will influence upper management's opinion of you.
Their managerial approach will likely set the tone for the way you approach and complete your work. Managers play an incredibly powerful role over those whom they manage.
Given that a manager's power, authority and their ability to strongly influence your job satisfaction, it's essential that you prioritize your relationship with your boss. To do so you'll need to have a positive and mutually productive relationship. Of course, there may be situations where, try as you might, you may find it impossible to develop a positive working relationship. It's important to know when it's best for your mental health to leave a job before a negative situation spirals further.