Inspire Your Employees for Growth
My husband and I have a few small businesses but our main bread and butter comes from our construction company. In this recession, we have not suffered like other companies. We focus on remodeling, an activity more "stay-cationers" are investing in. Our field crews and office staff work hard for us year round. Since we're together so much, it is easy to get the "feeling" that we're just family.
In our line of work, we see other companies transitioning employees fairly quickly. We've been fortunate to have a core grow that just keeps going and growing. I attribute this to the inspiration we provide. Here's what we do.
We recognize a job well done, privately and publicly. Deadlines and construction "surprises" (think rotten wood or leaking plumbing) have us calling on our guys all the time. We hold quarterly barbecues, crawfish boils or dinners out where we give out "kudos." If the quarter has been exceptional, we add a little extra pay but the recognition is important to the team.
My husband offers professional trade development to employees that stay with him for 6 months. They can earn paid certification for some areas of construction. Office staff have the same opportunity. We foot the bill for yearly refresher courses at the local college.
Communication is important and not just ours. Frustration and personality clashes are bound to happen. People need a chance to vent. Ultimately, we make the ultimate decisions on pressing issues but we do try to be open to suggestions.
Birthdays, anniversaries and holidays are special to us. We send cards and give gifts at appropriate times. I have personally been surprised at the number we have received in return.
Lastly, we explain our advancement programs. My husband, the former engineer, has a certain criteria he has set for each "position" beyond helper. When up and coming builders ask how they can advance, he tells them what they need to do qualify. Personality and hard work are important factors too but having parameters give potential leaders a target to shoot for.
Inspiration for your small business employees can vary from a thoughtful calendar to a "word of the day" email. Consistent real inspiration will make your employees happy and successful. We employees succeed so do you!
Published by Monica Bullock - Featured Contributor in Beauty and Lifestyle
Monica is a small business owner and writer living on the Gulf Coast. After attending college at the University of South Alabama, Monica purchased her own cosmetics and skin care business. In a few years, sh... View profile
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