Drivers of employee dis/satisfaction: a comparison of tourism and sports industries

This study aims to identify the common and distinct factors affecting the dis/satisfaction of employees in two different industries, namely tourism and sports, and develop a model in the end. The study was carried out by using the qualitative method. A total of 118 employees working both in five-star hotels and sports centers participated in the study. Common factors affecting the employee satisfaction were thematized as the fellow employees, nature of job, relationship with superiors, salary, working hours, career opportunities, and job security. The factors affecting the dissatisfaction were thematized as the low salary, ineffective management, job insecurity, and inconsiderate mates. In the context of satisfaction in tourism, the theme of “extra opportunities” differs from sports. In the context of dissatisfaction with sports, the theme of “lack of career opportunities” differs from tourism. Study findings present valuable implications for the two industries in a desire to increase the performance and productivity of their businesses. The study conveys its originality by identifying the employee dis/satisfaction factors both in tourism and sports industries.