Enhancing Employee Relationships

Not only do small business owners have to rely on building and developing business relationships, those with employees must develop relationships that boost morale and a culture of making the business work most efficiently and productively.

Whether the small business owner has 1 employee or 500 +, these are some things to think about to enhance employee relationships.

• Every employee is valuable and must be treated as a valuable employee. If the employee is not valuable, why is he or she employed?
• Have only a few rules, regulations, or policies - and apply them to everyone. When employees are treated differently, their loyalty will be destroyed and never recovered.
• Never underestimate the power of "please" and "thank you" because these little words go a long way toward boosting morale and employee relations. These words aren't lost on customers, either!
• Reward exceptional effort and positive results. If you reward mediocre effort and results, you'll get less than mediocre effort the next time.
• Be careful about competition. If you're trying to build a team, there is only one side and not an "us against them" mentality.
• Competition can be healthy and motivational, but it can backfire and lead to team destruction.
• Monthly or quarterly meet with all staff members and inform them of what's going on within the business. This is an excellent opportunity to reward exceptional efforts and big wins within the business.
• Manage by walking around and speaking with your employees. This is a powerful way to find out what is really going on and to show that you care about them as people and employees.
• Have fun at work. Whether scheduled or not, make every attempt to create a climate of care and concern - and enjoyment - within the work environment. When people enjoy what they do, they produce better results.
• Believe in your organization, in your product or service, and believe in your people. Most employees will work harder when they feel validated and cared for.
• Be authentic. If you as a business owner want to enhance employee relationships, you must come from a place of authenticity about it. Sincerity is required for positive results.

There are many additional ways to enhance employee relationships. I've listed the foundation of enhanced employee relationships here.