How to Increase Employee Loyalty

In this economy, many businesses are finding themselves in a position that calls for layoffs and cutbacks. While it is difficult to let any of your staff members go, you don't want your best employees to start worrying about the company's stability and entertaining thoughts that perhaps they ought to start looking elsewhere. Keep your staff happy and healthy, even during rocky times, by following these steps.

Instructions

1. Give your employees a break. For example, give each staff member one half-day off each month--Friday afternoons for some, Monday mornings for others--or an extra day off each quarter. If you can afford to, do so without reducing their pay.

2. Build morale and feelings of unity. One organization whose staff meetings are held each Tuesday coordinates a fun afternoon for its staff every time there is a fifth Tuesday in a month. You don't need to spend a lot of money to have fun. Some possibities include board games and munchies, or a potluck taco bar, baked potato bar or sundae bar.

3. Reward loyalty. It might seem to your best employees that the "slackers" in the group are always coming in late or calling in sick on a weekly basis and getting away with it. Offer an extra vacation day to staff members who don't have any missed or late days each month, or give them raffle tickets they can enter into a drawing for a much-desired item.

4. Offer benefits and perks that make the job worth more. If your employees can get affordable health care for themselves and their families through your company, they will think twice about going elsewhere. If you sell or make a product, allow your staff to have the first crack at new merchandise at a deep discount. Think about what you can offer.

5. Provide what your employees need to do the job you hired them to do. If your staff is working hard to meet deadlines and find new clients, but they don't have what they require--be it resources, assistance, or sufficient and reasonable time--they are likely to become frustrated and disheartened.

Tips & Warnings

• Listen to your staff. Suggestion boxes are good, but small group meetings are better.

Resources

• Staff Recognition Gifts