Running A Small Business - Every Employee Counts

Every employee counts, and that's particularly true when you run a small business. By focusing on creating the kind of culture where everyone is excited to be onboard you are guaranteed to add improved profits to your bottom line. But it's not as easy as it sounds.

Research carried out in the UK and the US shows that today people want more from their work. They look for work-life balance and the kind of meaningful work that makes a difference to both customers and the community. With the changes over the last 30 years from a 'job for life' to a world of short term contracts, outsourcing and off-shoring, employees want more from their jobs than just money. As a small business owner who wants the best talent for your team, you better make it your business to understand what makes them tick and deliver the goods.

So how do you go about creating a great work environment that not only attracts the best people to work for you, but also motivates them to go above and beyond their job description?

Here are some tips to help you turn your small business into an 'employer of choice':

1. Don't keep secrets! Share your vision and mission with your people from day one. Let them feel your passion for your business and where you want it to go.

2. Get started on the right road by telling them what you expect. Give them clear job descriptions, goals and targets.

3. Train them thoroughly. No one can do their best if you they don't know how to do or how you want it done in the first place.

4. Review their performance on a regular basis and work with them on a personal development plan. That way they can continuously improve and learn.

5. Recognise and reward good work. Showing appreciation by saying 'thank you' goes a long way, as does a small gift.

6. Share feedback about your business results - good and bad. Keep them in the know.

7. Listen to their ideas and act on the effective ones. Employees have great ideas and work even harder to make them work.

8. Empower them to make decisions.

9. Find out about their personal aims and ambitions. Do what you can to help them move forward.

10. Pay a little above average. They feel highly valued while you benefit from increased productivity and retention.

When you take care of your people, they take care of you. A motivated, happy employee goes the 'extra mile' for your customer and is proud to work for your business. What's more they recommend you to other people as a great employer and a good place to do business.

The best people have choices. They're in demand, whatever the economy, and they always want to work for the best employers. By putting these ideas to work in your business your reputation as an 'Employer of Choice' will grow along with your profits.


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Mike Newman is a noted business turnaround expert, entrepreneur and business coach. His wife, Trish is an award winning, international business leader. Together they offer no nonsense, practical advice to small business owners. Their website offers business coaching services, marketing tips, resources and success strategies for small business.