10. Hire Carefully
Look for a “good fit” including positive attitude, values, work ethic.
9. Establish Standards
Communicate expectations. Employees cannot read your mind.
8. Teach
Model desired behavior and provide training for specific skills.
7. Recognize & Reward
Smart business practices include recognizing and rewarding employees who are doing a great job. Recognition is an inexpensive way to reinforce the behaviors that make the company successful. Reward and retain key employees by using carefully planned “incentive compensation.”
6. Weed Out The Weak
Tolerating poor performers lowers the standards for all employees and drains overall productivity.
5. Invite Input
Don’t be afraid to ask questions like: Is this a good place to work? What’s working well? What needs improvement?
4. Over Communicate
Keep employees informed to reduce gossip and speculation.
3. Confront Problems
Don’t let problems fester. Deal with the issues sooner rather than later.
2. Develop Systems
Ensure backup and cross training. Do not allow a few key employees to hold you hostage.
1. Consistency Is key
An employee handbook is a good way to clearly establish company policies and reduce your risk of legal complaints.
Sifleet is a member of business practice group of Worcester-based law firm Hassett & Donnelly PC. She can be reached at 508-791-6287.
