A happy employee is a more productive employee. But how to make them happy is the challenge. Many take the goal too personally and try to build staff contentment through personal relationships.
Professional growth People want to stretch, to develop their natural talents, feel their life has a narrative and is going somewhere. When they feel that they are growing, they may be exhausted but they're also inspired, energetic, and willing to take on a great deal. Anyone who reports to you (and anyone who reports to them) should have a professional development plan. That will keep everybody engaged, busy, and--eventually--happy.
Strong community Everybody wants to be proud of where they work, to feel that they are investing the most precious thing they have--time--in something that matters.Superficial social-responsibility projects won't fill this gap for you. You need to create direct links between the success of the business and the community you serve. These need to involve the entire work force and should be active, public, visible, and long lasting. Many companies get their staff to choose the causes or charities they support. The more they're engaged in these commitments, the more meaningful they will be to them--and your company community.
Fair treatment "Everybody here is somebody." The owner or manager knows everyone's name--even the names of everyone's kids and pets. This kind of fair--and kind--treatment also means startlingly low turnover rates, which also saves money. But it's not really about the money.
The very best companies honor these principles and enact them lavishly. They don't pay lip service, and they don't do the bare minimum; they go overboard. They do so because they know the secret of leadership: Look after the people, and the people look after the business.
Check out Aranawards.com for more great rewards for you & your team.
