Don't Worry, Be Happy

by Paula Santonocito

2010 salary increases, when available, will be modest at best. Indeed, research from membership organization The Conference Board finds 2010 budgeted salary increases are at a 25-year low.

Meanwhile, other research from The Conference Board finds employee job satisfaction is at its lowest level in two decades.

Nevertheless, with the belief (hope) that money doesn't buy happiness, employers are attempting to infuse workers with a jolt of joy using other methods, and one of these methods is happiness coaching.

The Wall Street Journal (subscription required) reports that a growing number of employers are hiring trainers who "draw on psychological research, ancient religious traditions or both to inspire workers to take a more positive attitude--or at least a neutral one."

Although workers say the programs help them have more positive attitudes, the question remains as to how a sunnier outlook will translate to employee retention. Will happiness coaching ultimately encourage people to remain with their current employers--or give them the optimism required to look elsewhere?