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Welcome to running a business in 2009, a more-with-less environment. The good news, though, is that entrepreneurs do this better than anyone else. We are accustomed to running lean operations, not hiring unless we need to, and using all the resources at our disposal. That said, working in that environment when the heat gets turned up even more makes for some uncomfortable times. Clients know they can be pickier and ask for more; that can be frustrating for all. Before I get to my advice, let me tell you a story about my family. One year, my wife declared we would have a handmade/homemade Christmas. No purchased gifts for our kids or us. So, instead of spending our time and money at the malls, we were forced to think harder, be more creative and show how much we cared for each other. It was a rousing hit; we lingered longer over the gifts (most of which we still have, unlike many store-bought presents given in the years since); we understood the effort and energy that went into the process. There could be lessons there for business owners or managers. Without the opportunity to hand out gift cards or extra vacation days, this is a time to work extra hard on the personal side of your shop. Make sure that employees know how much you appreciate them, even if there is no additional monetary benefit. This can be through simple interactions. For instance, do your employees feel they are important to them? That you are listening to what they have to say? When they are speaking, listen carefully, focus on their concerns and cares. The great thing about this management technique is that it doesn’t take any more time or money, just concentration and focus.

by Kevin Salwen, SBAC Expert

4 months ago

Asker's Rating: 

It's called job security. If they slack off causing your company to go under, they go under too and are then they're jobless. Not a good speech for morale but it's basically the facts. Or - You can always booster them that they are the best of the bunch to still be with you and not have been laid off. And the old standby that never fails - Monetary Incentive. Money! Bonuses! More Money! It's the #1 language in this country. That should do it.

by findz2001- 4 months ago