Answer to Question 1
Job satisfaction is defined as the positive feeling that results from an appraisal of one's work. Research indicates that job satisfaction can be predicted by certain characteristics: hope, resilience, optimism, and self-efficacy. This research has resulted in the creation of psychological capital theory which is the notion that having a positive outlook improves processes and outcomes. Extremely stressful situations on the job may result in alienation and burnout. Alienation occurs when workers believe what they are doing is meaningless and that their efforts are devalued or when they do not see the connection between what they do and the final product. Burnout is the depletion of a person's energy and motivation, the loss of occupational idealism, and the feeling that one is being exploited.
Answer to Question 2
A mentor or developmental coach is part teacher, part sponsor, part model, and part counselor who facilitates on-the-job learning to help a new hire do the work required in his or her present role and to prepare for future roles. The mentor helps a new employee avoid trouble and provides invaluable information about the unwritten rules that govern day-to-day activities in the workplace. The mentor makes sure that the new hire is noticed and receives credit from supervisors for good work. By mentoring, mentors fulfill aspects of Erikson's phase of generativity, which is the need of middle-aged adults to ensure the continuity of society through activities such as socialization or having children.