Daniel L. Newman

Employees are involved in every aspect of the business and therefore are generally involved in customer interaction. Having positive, engaged employees is essential for long-term success. The happiest customers are often a byproduct of working with the happiest employees.

Inspiring employees, especially in a tough business climate, isn't always easy. Here are some ways (other than money) to get this done in 2012:

Communicate. The most common complaints I hear from dissatisfied employees relate to lack of communication. It's natural to seek to understand. As employees, we at the very least want to know what's going on before our customers and suppliers. It's baffling how bad some leaders and managers are at this. Try overcommunicating a little bit. Trust me - they will let you know when you are sharing too much.

Demonstrate Vision. As part of the communication strategy, leadership has to show a sense of vision. Many of the happiest employees work for companies where they feel there is a clear sense of direction. When that's the case they know that their work is contributing toward something significant. A lot of companies write a mission or vision statement and then don't look at it again for years. Vision is part of the business planning process, but it should also be part of every day.

Be Present. Leadership can't be done effectively from the corner office. There's something called management by wandering around (MBWA). While it sounds kind of silly, employees seek to see their leadership involved and engaged.

Offer New Opportunities. Employees yearn for continued growth and development. As an employer, giving additional responsibility to a hardworking employee can be quite rewarding for both parties. While a promotion may require substantial payout, sometimes that bridge can be gapped slowly and when the up-andcoming employee is generating new, improved company results the compensation can follow. Nevertheless, employees seek mobility. Most CIs, being small, lack the formal growth structure of larger enterprises. A little creativity can go a long way here.

Exude Positivity. There is probably nothing more demoralizing for an employee than a leader that walks around moping and pouting. Whatever your current positivity level is, amp it up a notch.