Unwrapping the relation between work environment and job satisfaction

Abstract

This research examined the influence of the work environment on employees' job satisfaction in the banking sector in the Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) region. As the banking industry in the region confronts many challenges, it is essential that banks retain their talent. Hence, this research explored essential elements that could influence job satisfaction and impact employee decisions to stay or leave. A quantitative research design was used on a sample of 250 employees from four GCC countries to explain the relationship between three categories of work environment, human, technical, organisational and job satisfaction. Results indicated that employee work environment has significant positive relationships on job satisfaction level in terms of participation, communication, technology, trust, and management leadership. Office layout and work space were not related to job satisfaction. The study recommended actions for management to improve banks' work environment, which in turn will increase employee satisfaction and reduce turnover in the sector.