Eight out of 10 Hillel professionals report being satisfied with their work.

Eight out of 10 Hillel professionals report being extremely satisfied with their work, according to a newly-released survey from the Hillel Human Resources department. At the same time, the study shows room for improvement.

“Gender disparity, a lack of mid-level positions, and insufficient supervision were identified as key issues of concern,” explains Hillel Vice President for Human Resources Scott Brown.

The survey, the first of its kind, was conducted in spring 2006 and garnered 441 respondents, approximately a 78 percent response rate. “The data give us a baseline for measuring where we are and how we can improve,” says Brown. “The findings will allow the Human Resources department, Hillel directors and lay leaders to double our efforts with professional development, training and strategic recruiting as outlined in Hillel’s strategic plan.”

The survey found that over 80 percent of Hillel professionals are extremely satisfied that Hillel fulfills their goals for joining the organization: to do meaningful work, to make a difference, to work with students and to impact the Jewish community. Additionally, all professionals were highly satisfied with the challenge of their work, the opportunity to be innovative and to be recognized.

A surprise finding of the survey was the notable gap in satisfaction between directors, assistant directors, rabbis and development professionals to their more junior colleagues. One reason given for the dissatisfaction and high turnover rate among junior professionals was the lack of mid-level positions; another reason, inadequate supervision.

“The survey showed that while supervisors were available and accessible, there is a greater need for quality supervision,” stresses Brown. “And overall we need to do a better job creating individual career development plans and career paths for our professionals.”

Gender equity was another issue highlighted by the findings of the survey. While both male and female assistant Hillel directors indicated they wanted to advance within the organization, women were less satisfied than their male peers with the opportunities to advance.

The survey found that the majority of individuals who joined the organization learned of their positions through individuals connected to Hillel rather than from employment ads or career-search Web sites. “We cannot overemphasize the importance of personal, face-to-face recruitment in securing the most qualified candidates for our jobs,” says Brown.

Over the next several months, the human resources department will be developing an outline for addressing all the findings of the survey.

“We hope the findings of this survey will provoke conversation throughout Hillel so that we attract, retain and develop the best professional staff in the Jewish world,” says Jennifer Zwilling, associate director for professional development.

For a copy of the Executive Summary and PowerPoint presentation of Hillel’s Human Resources Employee Survey, please contact Jennifer Zwilling, associate director for professional development.