If you're so down in the dumps about work that your commute feels like a trip to the gallows, you're not alone - in one recent study, 41% of workers were found to be dissatisfied in their job.

If a job really isn't right for a person, I would advise them to leave. But before you go back to the drawing board with online jobs searches and CV writing, there are some things to think about which could save you a lot of time and trouble in the long run. For example, there's a lot a simple conversation can do to improve your working environment. 

How to Change your Situation

Astute employees are able to talk about being dissatisfied with their job in a more productive way, looking at their current position as a starting point from which they can grow and flourish. If you're considering leaving your current job then, before scouring for new jobs online, try to think about what you do like about it, as well as what you don't. Write a list of these good and bad points, and bring what you want to improve into a meeting with the relevant colleague.

If your reason for wanting to leave is people-orientated, try tackling that person or people's behaviour. If you need more of a work/life balance, raise this issue with your HR manager to talk about flexible working.

If you were overlooked for a promotion, this is a point to raise with your boss in an appropriate manner and set some timescales for your future with the company. Resolving any of these issues could have a huge impact on your job satisfaction.

Be Brave!

When it comes to approaching people for promotions or over other issues, women tend to have less confidence in the work place and studies have shown that they have more difficulties asking for what they want, leading to lower job satisfaction in the long run.

For men, confidence issues can also be a problem, so whoever you are, you really need to face your fears. Ask for what you want and don't be afraid to follow your dream if your current job isn't for you. If you're determined to go, be sure find a job that fulfills your requirements.

In order to find your perfect role, draw up a career strategy, outlining what aspects you are looking to retain and achieve in your next role. Once you know this, try to incorporate your aims into your CV writing so employers will know what you're looking for before you turn up for an interview. Wherever you're looking for jobs, online or in print, keep those aims in mind at all times.

Job Satisfaction: The Facts

If you're feeling unsatisfied at work but can't quite put your finger on why, there are a number of seemingly small things which could be making a big difference to your day. People who know about these may be able to make the necessary changes without re-writing CVs.

A study by University of Warwick Economics professor Andrew Oswald revealed that there are a number of crucial factors influencing job satisfaction among workers in the UK.

Tight deadlines or high-speed work tend to be bad for job satisfaction, and age is also important. Those in their 20s are less likely to be satisfied with their jobs, and job satisfaction was shown to decrease with age before the 20s and increase afterwards.

Meanwhile, working at home is good for job satisfaction, as are small freedoms such as being able to move the desk or change the lighting. Dealing with people is another positive point, as is job security, being in a small workplace, having a high relative income, being self-employed and having a shorter commute.

Don't plan to quit job without notice unless you've taken a few precautionary steps

If you've ever planned to just quit job without notice, you might want to reconsider for two very selfish reasons. The first one is that you will pick up at least one more paycheck. The second reason is that where ever you end up working next may want to check with your previous employer. If they feel slighted by your quick departure, they may be less than flattering when they talk about you.

New employers might see your hasty departure as a red flag and wonder if you

will treat them the same way. It's always best to follow a bit of protocol and give your employer at least two weeks to find a replacement or at least a temporary substitute.

In addition to the courtesy you are giving your employer, you're also giving yourself a little bit of time to wrap up any loose ends. Confirm that any 401k money goes with you. Double check that you are current on all your bills Make sure have some money in the bank to cover your expenses and a have a new job lined up.

If you don't have another job lined up, it is well worth your while to do so while you are sill employed. It is actually easier to do while you are working than when you aren't. If too much time goes by without any offers, you will look less an less desirable in the eyes of an employer.

It should go without saying that if you are married and your spouse works, you need to get on his/her company's insurance plan immediately. And before you make the leap, sock as much money into savings as you can.