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Let Your People Shine
by Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW

"The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated", once stated William James, the philosopher. As obvious as this fact seems, there are bosses who don't seem to realize that this applies to them and the people who work for them.

Some bosses cannot compliment their employees because they are just a little bit jealous. Other bosses like to play the role of being hard to impress. A few bosses are afraid to be too liberal with praise and recognition. One is as wrong as the other.

People crave attention and recognition for themselves and their work. Give it to them and watch a metamorphosis take place. They will turn their appreciation into acts of gratitude, acts of doing things correctly the first time, not because they have to, but because they want to.

What does it take to satisfy your employees? It does not take much; all you have to do is ask them. When asked, they will give you many good ideas as to how you can enhance the motivational climate for them.

Here are some suggestions that will help you get your employees to shine:

• Let them know that they are a valued and appreciated member of the organization.
• Establish an active suggestion box campaign.
• Implement the practical and suggestions.
• Announce internally and publicize externally the winning suggestion.
• Give credit where credit is due, before it is asked for.
• Keep employees informed about aspects that affect them and their jobs.
• Give frequent performance appraisals.
• Support the educational pursuits of your employees.
• Most of all show them by your actions that you care about them.

Do these and watch your employees begin to shine! You will see it reflected in their attitude and in their performance. Remember: When you maximize your potential, everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

© MMIV, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW

Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW, Management Consultant, offers a free health survey at http://eagibbs.usana.com; free state tourism guides at www.ExecutiveAndGroupTravel.com; and travel updates at www.executiveandgrouptravel.blogspot.com. Reach him at eagibbs@ureach.com or at 502-386-1175.

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