As an SME owner, you always need to make sure that you look after your staff and find ways to show them that they are valued. High staff turnover can be a big problem for SMEs and interfere with the business in many ways, plus showing staff that you care can also create a positive work environment that everyone can enjoy. Here are a few ways that you can show that you care.
Flexible Working
The days of working 9-5 Monday to Friday are long gone and now employers should offer staff flexible working. This shows that you recognise that they have a life outside of work and can do well in terms of raising morale. Flexible working should include flexibility when it comes to working hours but also opportunities for working from home – this can actually benefit both employer and employee.
Perks
You may not be able to offer the salaries that the bigger companies in your industry can but you can still offer a range of perks to staff to keep them happy. This could include perks such as free gym memberships, vacation/paid time off, performance bonuses and employee development programs.
Nice Office Environment
You can also show that you care by providing a nice space for employees to work in. An open-plan office with high-quality furniture, stylish decor, plants and the latest technology can all be effective but you can also cultivate the right kind of environment by allowing open communication and creating a laid-back atmosphere.
Socials
Leading on from this, you can create a laid-back atmosphere and encourage employee bonding through regular social events. People spend a huge amount of their adult life working so it is important that they get along with those that they work with. Arrange regular, informal social events and it can show that you care while also helping to create a team-based mentality.
Recognise Life Moments
It is important that business owners see employees as people and one of the best ways to do this is to recognise and celebrate their major life moments, such as birthdays, marriages, births etc. It is a nice touch to get a personalised card from somewhere like Card Factory and get everyone in the office to sign it. You could then celebrate with cake or even arrange a social event.
Every SME owner needs to find ways to show that they care about their employees. This is to keep morale high, increase employee loyalty and to create a positive work environment. The above are a few of the best strategies for doing this which should help to make employees feel important, recognised and valued in their positions. This can then benefit the company in numerous ways and make work more enjoyable for all.
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