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Most respondents said
that the single greatest factor
contributing to their happiness at work was feeling like they had done
a good job. So you can easily improve employee satisfaction by frequently
acknowledging their contributions and talents. Likewise, when mistakes
are made, discuss them privately, and keep the conversations solution-oriented
rather than accusatory.
Delegate, Delegate, Delegate:
It is important to most
employees to be taken seriously at work, and to feel that their ideas and
actions make an impact. Once someone has proven that they can perform their
job without constant supervision, allow them the freedom to make their
own plans and decisions. Delegating work is more efficient, and your employees
will appreciate your trust in them.
Hold Regular Reviews:
Offer employees formal reviews
every six months so that folks know their hard work isn't going unnoticed.
If someone is doing an outstanding job, promote that person as quickly
as possible. If certain employees are performing below expectations, give
them the constructive criticism they need to improve. Make sure each employee's
career plan is discussed during the review process. This will indicate
that you care about their future, and are concerned that their present
position is helping them achieve their professional goals.
Share Your Plans:
By outlining high-level
corporate goals and challenges to your staff members, they will better
comprehend their roles and appreciate the value of their contributions.
Sharing as much of your business plan as you can with your employees is
a great way to make them feel connected to your company.
Remember, They Have A
Life:
The majority of employees
believe it is important to achieve balance between work and family. Many
companies have found that, given the opportunity, employees will elect
to work four days a week for longer hours in order to earn an extra day
off. If you can figure out ways to allow people to spend more time with
their families, perhaps by taking some work home with them, it will greatly
boost their morale. It may be worth the extra start-up cost and effort
involved in allowing staff members to telecommute if it will help you retain
your best employees.
Many people are happy to
work flextime, part time or night and weekend shifts. These opportunities
appeal to a variety of professionals including those pursuing two careers,
part time students, semi-retired professionals and new parents. Initially,
these kinds of schedules require a little extra time to sort out, but your
employees will be a lot happier if they are given the freedom to choose
when they want to work.
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