Recognition and Appreciation
Many studies have been conducted to determine what an employee wants most out of a job. One prevalent answer is 'respect' or the desire to 'feel appreciated.' This response was given more frequently than additional money. Humans have basic needs, and one of the greatest is the need to feel important and appreciated. Examine the programs that are in place in your business currently that show appreciation and give recognition for exceptional performance. Then build additional programs. There are many benefits here, one of which is that it is often more cost effective to institute programs than to give a pay raise to keep employees happy and content. More than that, it addresses this basic need for recognition.
If you have an employee turnover problem, this is the area to start correcting. You will know that you have reached your goal of showing appreciation when several employees come into management's office just to thank them for providing a great place to work. Respect starts with simple things like the method you use to communicate to an employee to do a task. If you ask that a task be completed and include the simple word, "Please," and when it is completed a "Thank-you," it shows respect, which should be a mutual attribute. It will improve the willingness to complete the job in a positive manner.
|