S YOUR STAFF GIVING YOU THE THUMBS DOWN?

Even though we may be coming out of the worst of the economic downturn we have a serious problem. The negative impact of hard times has had its worst effect on the morale of employees. Burned out and unmotivated they are not buying into the "brighter days ahead" scenario. This low morale could be the final knockout for a workplace that is already reeling from budget cuts, lost accounts and staff reductions. Here are five ways to take your company from thumbs down to thumbs up.

DON’T FOCUS ON THE NUMBERS. FOCUS ON YOUR PEOPLE.

It’s a hard lesson but it’s one that everyone is facing: "You can’t win in the marketplace if you’re not winning in the workplace" It is absolutely vital that everyone is on the same team. Negativity is more than just talk it is money down the drain in the energy drained and opportunities not taken. You can’t afford to tolerate the nay-sayers and critics. You want enthusiasm to be the virus that spreads not negativity.

DON’T LOOK BACK. FOCUS ON THE FUTURE.

Create a positive culture that energizes people. Don’t tolerate whining or complaining. Reward proactive problem solving. Seek solutions not excuses. When everyone feels like they are pulling together in a non-threatening environment of mutual respect, you will be amazed at how many ideas and innovations are offered to move you over the current hurdle.

ALL TOGETHER NOW

This is not the time to separate yourself from employees as you shoulder the worries of leadership. More than ever, employees need to see you in the trenches. Don’t expect of others what you don’t expect of yourself. Speak up. Acknowledge the challenges but let your people know you have a positive plan for their future as well as the future of your business. Optimistically focus on where you are going.

LITTLE WINS. BIGGER SUCCESSES.

Encourage pride in the products and services you provide and offer sincere praise for work well done. If the day to day routines are constantly making small improvements, over time you will see major changes in your workplace. Have everyone on the outlook for ways to make modest improvements. Encourage tweaking of routines, schedules, human resources. Big successes are always built on small gains.

THUMBS UP

Don’t let challenges beyond your control bring you to your knees. There will be times, regardless of how dedicated you are to helping your employees to take charge to reenergize their work life, that some will decide to move on. That’s ok. The main thing is to take charge where you can and build your company into one that is proud, positive, and prepared to build on opportunities.