While flying back from Birmingham, Ala to Los Angeles, Ca, my row of passengers were chatting with the flight attendants. When asked “how are you doing today?” a few replied, ” As soon as we find another job, we are done here!” Not the most comforting reply. Yet, many other passengers chimed in and said the same type of statements.

Comments ranged from:

1) Doing the wok of two laid off employees
2) Consistent criticism with no recognition
3) Blame to go around instead of finding a solution

It has always been a cornerstone of great leaders to recognize effort, productivity and even average performance. Many surveys by Harris poll, Gallup all state that employees who feel undervalued or abused will be leaving their current position as soon as possible.

Can your business survive a loss of its current talent? Are you using best practices to retain and attract talented employees? Do the multi-generations at your company work together?

Quick tips:

1) Recognize or compliment effort and performance
2) Focus on solutions rather than blame
3) Involve team members in decisions
4) Create an atmosphere of trust and success
5) Make sure employees are clear on the mission and vision of the business

You will find that treating your employees well now will lead to keeping them when the economy begins to churn for the better.

Dr. Brian Grossman has been training CEO’s and leaders in retention strategies for the past ten years. Contact him for a free consult on how communication and listening can help your bottom line.