Gdansk accommodationby Joni Per-Lee, Georgia SBDC ERROR MSGWant to keep good employees? Create a work environment that takes advantage of most individuals' natural motivation. Too many small business owners believe that just being nice to their employees and paying them on time creates a positive, productive workplace. In reality, the best employees desire the same kind of work environment that an entrepreneur craves. They want independence, creative freedom, financial rewards, and personal satisfaction. So, what can a small business owner do to promote this kind of work environment and, therefore, motivate staff? First, realize that only an exceptional manager can actually motivate employees. On the other hand, a poor manager can destroy an employee's innate motivation. Most employees are adults who appreciate respect, fair wages, enjoyment, and a sense of control over their own performance. A wise manager will adopt a personal philosophy that recognizes these desires in his employees and then structures the workplace accordingly. Second, set goals with employees. All goal setting should include employees or the department in the process. Generally, people accept and endorse a mutually agreed upon objective. Goals need to be specific, measurable, and attainable; they should fit into the larger company picture. For example, "Resolve 95% of customer complaints within 24 hours" meets the criterion, assuming it's achievable. Re-evaluate goals regularly. Be sure to be consistent both in the evaluation of achievement and in goal setting for employees with the same job. Goals should promote individual accomplishment, but not at the expense of team spirit, an important component of an environment of excellence. Communication is the third key to creating a motivating work environment. Small companies have an advantage over large ones in keeping close contact with staff. Employees should know the company's goals and how close it is to achieving them. A confident business owner will ask for feedback from valuable employees about the company and his own performance. Even more, staff members experience ownership when they see their suggestions implemented. Thus, the exchange of information is critical to a motivating work environment. Finally, recognize achievement and celebrate successes. Let other employees know when a co-worker does something exceptional. By doing so, an owner demonstrates his appreciation to all the staff. Also, employees are more committed to the company if they participate in its rewards. If the company just had its biggest sales week ever, provide pizza gift certificates for the staff to celebrate with their families. Enlarging the celebration recognizes the fact that employees have a personal life and boosts the families' appreciation for the company. Plus, spontaneous celebrations produce excitement, another characteristic of a positive work environment. ERROR MSGTo summarize, realize most people want to excel. Create an environment that sets goals and recognizes accomplishments. Communicate with employees by offering information and listening to their feedback. Finally, make it fun and share the benefits of company success. By doing so, a small business owner creates a place where motivated employees will want to stay.
hoteles LiverpoolTo obtain small business assistance contact a consultant at a Small Business Development Center. > See also: Human Resources & Personnel | 
