As an employer, I had always thought, and this myth has always been peddled, that a company should focus on making the employee happy, then he will work hard and be productive.

This is a persistent myth, and I think it is NOT true.  After years of working with people convinces me that what the company should primarily focus on is  to make the employee useful and productive.  When he is productive, and feels he is doing something worthwhile, and contributing to his team or company, he will be fulfilled AND happy.

A happy employee is just well, happy.  But just because you make him happy, don’t expect that he will be productive!

If youa re an employee,I can also tell you that  looking for happiness in a job is not going to work. and yes, few people are completely happy with their job. I think they are looking for the wrong things. What you should look for in a job is where you can be useful, productive and can contribute. I believe in all of us, there is an innate sense of self worth that finds fulfillment in being able to give  in that community.