In general, managers want to have satisfied and motivated employees because their positive behaviours create positive outcomes and value for the company. But managers are also very interested in understanding two specific issues regarding their employees: (1) Are satisfied (happy) employees more productive than unsatisfied (unhappy) employees?, and (2) How important is employee engagement in generating satisfaction and productivity? The opening case provides information on both these important issues.

1. How do you think happiness and productivity relate to one another? Defend your answer.

2. What factors influence your happiness on the job?

3. Consider the following statement: “The use of social media by employees is harmful to productivity because employees are distracted from their work and spend too much time on personal matters instead.” Do you agree or disagree with the statement? Support your position.

4. Consider the following statement: “Since companies provide jobs for people, the company has every right to expect that employees will do things like sharing their job knowledge with their co-workers and with management because doing so will make the company more successful and allow it to continue to provide jobs.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Explain your reasoning.