A recent study led by researchers from the University of Leicester shows that employees are more satisfied and less stressed when they have jobs that give them more independence and variety.

According to Stephen Wood, lead author of the study, employees are able to perform better in their positions when they hold "enriched jobs." Wood says that these positions include managers who tell their staff members what is going on in the company, such as changes being made and financial performances. These jobs also allow employees to discuss their feelings and opinions with their bosses.

The results of the study were based on questionnaires filled out by 22,451 employees during the 2004 Workplace Employee Relations Survey.

Individuals who want to find an "enriched job" may want to consider taking a career test. These exams can show people which work environments would be best for them based on their personality traits, according to the book Career Counseling. They can also indicate what a job seeker's professional strengths and weaknesses are.