In a recent Alumni Web Services’ (AWS) survey of its online networking and alumni community members in the oil and gas industry, members were asked how their job satisfaction compared to the 2007 SPE survey where 73% of respondents were satisfied. AWS members’ responses remained consistent to the SPE survey; 43% percent report they are equally satisfied and a whopping 31% report a higher level of job satisfaction than before the economic downturn. This is good news compared with a recent Conference Board survey of job satisfaction levels in the U.S. According to the nationwide survey, only 45% of Americans were satisfied with their work—the lowest level recorded in 22 years of the survey.

Why the higher job satisfaction in the oil and gas industry? Many AWS members indicate their appreciation in still being employed during one of the worst economic downturns in history. Others are finding new challenges and opportunities as a result of improved technology with which they work to find future energy solutions, the changing economy and reorganizations within their companies. Most survey respondents did not change companies during the downturn, and those in technical positions found their area of expertise remained in demand.

Houston based HR Management Consultant Tom DeScioli believes that employees are staying put because of the economy, and businesses are offering incentives to stay, including flexibility with work/life issues, long-term incentive plans like stock or other equity-type programs, and cash-retention programs.

AWS Job Satisfaction Survey Results 2010

Part 2...

Sources:
Press Release. “U.S. Job Satisfaction at Lowest Level in Two Decades. The Conference Board, Posted January 5, 2010, www.conference-board.org.