Job Satisfaction - A Key Factor or Not for the Luxurious Hotels In Bulgaria?

Abstract: Background: Given the impact of job satisfaction on service quality and the value, job satisfaction holds significant importance in the hospitality industry. Understanding the drivers and hinders of job satisfaction is vital in an industry influenced by globalization and market competition. Job satisfaction is a widely debated and important topic in the hospitality sector, particularly in the hotel industry. Job satisfaction has a positive effect on the turnover of the company, employees’ fulfillment, and overall quality of goods and services. However, there is still not a clear statement which are the exact factors influencing the job satisfaction in the hospitality industry. Purpose: The focus of this paper is to determine how certain components impact the job satisfaction, specifically within the Bulgarian hospitality industry. By answering the research question, the study intends to contribute to the understanding of job satisfaction itself and how it affects employees’ performance in the hospitality and service industry. The findings will also provide a foundation for future research in this field, advancing knowledge on the influence of the drivers and hinders for job satisfaction. Method: This research paper has taken a qualitative, abductive approach. This approach fits the study as new concepts and ideas can occur by exploring various theories. Interviews were executed with employees, holding different positions in luxurious hotels in Bulgaria. The aim of the qualitative research is to attain a more profound comprehension regarding the topic based on personal experience of each respondent. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this paper, it can be concluded that the drivers indeed have a significant influence on employees' performance, which results with an increase on job satisfaction.  On the other hand, it can be stated that the hinders effect job satisfaction less compared to the drivers. Furthermore, the section indicates additional research that could have been done to determine the relationship between all the factors.