Make your workplace Better

The labour market is tight in many parts of the country. Help wanted signs appear to be springing up all over the place. Younger workers aren't afraid to change jobs if it means better pay or working conditions.

1. Show some appreciation

If you want to attract and retain good employees, you must pay them fairly. A sincere thank you, a pat on the back, a box of doughnuts, or a free lunch are all good ways to show appreciation for a job well done. Consider more substantial rewards, such as monetary bonuses or additional vacation time, when merited. Employees who believe they are valued are more likely to work hard and dedicate themselves to the company.

2. Provide feedback

When things go well, showing gratitude is important, but employees also want to hear from you when things go wrong or when things are going well. Giving thoughtful, constructive feedback to an employee will help them grow and perform better in the future, and it will be appreciated if done correctly. If you must be critical, do so in a tactful manner and in private to help the employee maintain his or her dignity. Consider it a teaching opportunity rather than a criticism. On a daily basis, as well as in a more formal annual performance review, be generous with both positive feedback and positive reinforcement.

3. Don’t micromanage 

Show your gratitude, provide feedback, and then take a step back. Allow others to do their jobs. Allowing people to make mistakes and learn from them is sometimes necessary. Micromanaging can lower morale and reduce productivity in both the manager and the employee under their supervision. Learn to delegate tasks and put your faith in your employees to finish them. If you give people a little space, you'll be surprised at what they can accomplish.

4. Get to know your employees

You've got your work cut out for you if you refer to one of your techs as "the tall one with the tattoo" and another as "the bald guy." Every employee's name should be remembered. Talk to them and learn about their passions, whether it's a sports team they support, a hobby they enjoy outside of work, or where their children attend school. When an employee perceives their boss as a cruel, faceless stranger, it is much easier for them to leave. If you recently bonded over your team's heart breaking overtime loss, on the other hand, they might not want to kick you while you're down.

5. Give clear direction

6. Provide inspiration 

7. Be flexible 

8. Don’t play favorites