Personality in relation to job satisfaction-An empirical study of Indian aviation industry

Job satisfaction plays a pivotal role for the individual well-being and is a crucial factor for organisational performance. As greater job satisfaction equates to both a better quality of life and better physical health, it essentially is an important predictor of greater performance and productivity as well. Since work is an important aspect of people's lives and most people spend a large part of their working lives at work, an understanding of the factors involved in job satisfaction seems crucial to improving employees' performance and productivity. The purpose of the present study was to determine the role of personality in predicting job satisfaction. Personality was measured by Big Five Inventory by John et al(1991). Job Satisfaction along with its facets was measured using Job Descriptive Index by Smith et al(1969). Data was collected from 254 working professionals in various airlines companies using self administered Questionnaire. The results of multiple regression analysis revealed that Personality significantly predicted Job Satisfaction. Personality trait Extraversion made significant contribution to the prediction of variation in job satisfaction. Other four personality traits did not explained significant variance in job satisfaction. The study has ample implication for HR managers to improvise upon their selection criteria and training programs and also makes significant contribution to the scant empirical literature in an inimitable sector (Aviation) which operates with altogether different work environment.