Employees are our greatest asset. Then why do most companies treat employees poorly? Any strategy or business plan relies on motivated and engaged people to make it happen.
One company I worked at, you could work until 7:00pm. And, no one would say a word and no, they didn’t pay any kind of overtime. However, when it was time for annual performance reviews they could list every mistake an employee has made. It was a morale killer. So employees became disengaged. They would come to work on time, do their assigned duties and give nothing extra.
"If you don't show appreciation to those that deserve it, they'll learn to stop doing the things you appreciate."
If an employer treats people poorly, they aren’t going to put the same level of effort into what they do. When you have a bunch of employees who refuse to go the extra mile to help a customer or to help the business grow, your company is in trouble. Worse, they will tell others about their experience. If a company seems to have trouble hiring good personnel, it may be time to evaluate how employees are treated after the hire.
Research conducted by Globoforce found 78 percent of workers said they would work harder if their efforts were better recognized and appreciated. Authenticity, respect and being a people builder gets noticed and respected by employees.
Don't take your employees for granted. No one likes to feel undervalued. Companies should always look to reward employees who put in the effort and deliver results. However, this must come from a root of authenticity otherwise employees won't buy into anything you do. It starts with treating employees well. Sometimes it's the little things you do that count the most. Always acknowledge employees efforts and contributions openly. Let them know how much you value them. "People work for money but go the extra mile for praise, recognition and rewards” -Dale Carnegie
A Maritz study in 2010 showed more than 84 percent of employees viewed their company as a great place to work if it had three or more reward and recognition programs in place. Companies that truly care for their employees get a ROI that is immeasurable. The ROI is increased productivity as well as employees being great brand ambassadors. This is priceless!