NFIB

Motivate Employees to Take Pride in the Business
05/ 14/ 2003

by Vicki Gerson

Many business owners wish their employees would take as much pride in the business as they do. How can an employer cultivate a sense of ownership in employees? For starters, recognition and praise are powerful incentives. Here are a few ideas for cementing employee loyalty to the business.

Create a recognition program.

The options for this type of program are many. For example, you can reward exceptional customer service, exceeding sales goals, best new ideas or cost-savings efforts.

Post praising letters.

When customers send letters of thanks for particular employees, display the letters in the break room or another common area. If you hold regular meetings, you may also want to read the letters and thank the employees yourself.

Write personal notes to employees.

Whenever possible write a short note to an employee about something he or she did that benefited the business. While dashing off an email to say thank you is fine, employees will appreciate the extra effort that a written note entails.

Write an annual letter to all employees.

At the end of each year, write a letter to all employees highlighting the successes that occurred in the business that year. Try to include everyone or every department in the letter to illustrate their role in the company's success.

Celebrate employee and business achievements.

It doesn't cost much to celebrate. Bring in doughnuts, bagels or pick up lunch one day. Take the time to recognize achievements such as exceeding goals or finishing a difficult job.

Make time for fun.

Morale always improves when employees get a chance to meet outside of work and relax together. Have a picnic lunch, a bowling party or any other activity you know your employees will enjoy.

Recognize employees who do extra work.

When employees work on holidays, spend a weekend at a trade show or come in on their day off, thank them and reward them in some way.

Try to promote from within.

Don't overlook your current employees when you have a job opening. Pay attention to any employees who have been taking business courses, getting an MBA or learning a new skill. It is always better for company morale when employees see advancement opportunities.

Small Business Sound Off
Does this story hit home?  Share your story with us