As a small business owner, you may eat, breathe and sleep your business goals, but your employees may not always feel that same passion. And according to a recent blog post by Sarah Fields from the Small Business Administration, unsatisfied employees can lead to unhappy customers, which means it’s critical to your business’ success that your employees are happy and feel fulfilled in their careers.
Here are a few ways you can lead and empower your employees:
1. Lead by example: As the boss, it’s your job to not only run your business, but to lead and inspire your employees. They need to feel that their concerns and aspirations are being heard, and that their happiness matters to you. Consider setting up a mentorship program for your employees or hosting a special outing for your management team, and everyone will start to feel more motivated and productive.
2. Host ‘lunch & learn’ sessions: Not only do these sessions encourage continued education for your employees, but it also gives them the opportunity to connect with fellow employees during lunch, making them feel even more connected to their jobs.
“Whether you’re discussing team goals and performance, holding a “show and tell” with a partner or a particular team, or bringing in a guest speaker or outside resource, getting everyone together in one room can shed light on new ways of doing things and make the lunch hour energizing and engaging,” Fields says.
3. Recognize achievement: Never forget the power of a simple thank you. When your employees feel appreciated in their careers, they’re more willing to take the extra step for you. Sending a thank you note or gift certificate is an easy way to show your employees that you’re grateful for their hard work.
Telhio Credit Union has a variety of business products and services, such as checking accounts, lines of credit or business loans that can help your business succeed through any storm. To contact a member of Telhio’s business services team, call 614-221-3233, option 6.
For more tips on empowering your employees, read “Top Tips to Lead and Empower Employees” by SBA author and moderator Sarah Fields.
Telhio is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or goes to school in Franklin, Fairfield, Delaware, Licking, Marion, Pickaway and Union counties. Founded in 1934, originally as the credit union for the Columbus Telephone Co., Telhio is a not-for-profit financial cooperative where its members are also its owners. Driven by its philosophy that members come first, Telhio is committed to the highest standards of responsibility and conduct. Telhio offers – branching offices throughout central Ohio and nearly 4,000 shared branching locations nationwide. Additionally, Telhio credit union participates in the highest level of combined federal and private share savings insurance available, insuring deposit accounts up to $500,000.*
* Federally insured by NCUA. Additional coverage up to $250,000 provided by Excess Share Insurance Corporation, a licensed insurance company.
