Many people believe that work is the polar opposite of fun. Perhaps this is the source of the "TGIF" mentality. However, if we consider the nature of work and the nature of play, we may arrive at a different conclusion.

Work does not feel like work when you enjoy what you do, enjoy the people you work with, and feel valued for your contributions.

So, how can leaders inspire employees to love their jobs and be fully invested in their organizations?

What makes people enjoy their jobs?

According to our interviews with many employees at companies that have been designated as Best Places to Work, people enjoy their jobs when they have the following characteristics:

• You are doing things that you enjoy and are skilled at.

• You work with people who share your values and with whom you enjoy collaborating.

• You are a member of a high-performing team that works well together and wants to win as a unit.

• You are proud of the company for which you work because you share its mission, vision, and values.

• You work for a boss who cares about you and pushes you to be your best; who acknowledges your efforts and contributions; and who provides you with a steady stream of growth-producing feedback on what you're doing well and how you can improve.

• You have well-defined objectives and metrics.

• Your incentives are in line with your objectives, and you are properly rewarded for a job well done.

• At work, you are given learning and development opportunities that encourage you to continue growing.

• You see a future for yourself within your company, and you can anticipate increasing your responsibility and compensation over time.

• You are encouraged to be resourceful and creative in your suggestions for how your company can improve.

What difference does it make if people enjoy their jobs?

When people enjoy their jobs, they devote their entire selves to them. This results in high engagement, high productivity, and low turnover! What business wouldn't want that from all of its employees?

Everything begins at the top!

Leaders who work on themselves, value their employees, and care enough about employee engagement to make their company a great place to work attract and retain the best people who enjoy working together to build a great company.

They have a high rate of productivity and a low rate of turnover. Recruiting becomes simple as people tell their friends what a great place to work the company is!