More and more signs point to the end of the recession. All indicators except unemployment are positive and most experts believe that too will improve in 2010. Finally, good news for all. Right?

While we can cheer these events, new storm clouds loom. A number of surveys point to pent up frustration and anger building within American workers. Layoffs, pay cuts, furloughs and benefit reductions have taken a toll. Employee loyalty has been tested and many workers have indicated they will be looking for new employment when the economy recovers. Employees have become disengaged.

For employers, this is a good and bad scenario. For the optimist, this may be a good time to recruit good workers who want a new opportunity. For others, now is the time to mend fences and work to reengage your workers before you loose them to greener pastures. For all employers, it is a time to remind your star employees how much you value and want them.

This economy has been tough on everyone. Don't let the recovery inflict more pain.

My new book, Uncomplicating Management may be the perfect gift for your boss or your management team. This book uncomplicates the art of managing people and provides a blueprint for success. By reading it, they will get practical, easy to understand ideas, real life examples and ready to use tools to make their job easier. What could be a better gift than that?

Order your book through my web site and I will sign each book--a perfect holiday gift. For all orders over 10, I will provide a 25% discount. Call me at 207-967-0837 for more information.

Have you ever dealt with an employee whose mere presence seems to suck all the life out of a room? Or the individual who constantly complains, creates conflict, berates all ideas, or just simply walks around with a rain cloud over their head? These "bad attitudes" can destroy morale and derail creative and innovative ideas. These folks have got to change or they must go-quickly.

Radio Interview: Jon Hansen will interview me on BlogTalk Radio on December 3. The Show name is "Motivating Ideals: How to Engage and Ignite Your Company's Workforce."

HRASM in Portland: I will be signing books on December 8 as part of an HRASM fundraiser. 25% the proceeds of each book sold will be donated to the SHRM Foundation.

NYPRO's Chairman Gordon Lankton was recently selected by the editors of IndustryWeek for induction into the inaugural class of IndustryWeek's Manufacturing Hall of Fame. Other inductees include Steve Jobs, Jack Welch and Lee Iacocca.

I had the privilege of working for Gordon Lankton for over seven years. In my new book, Uncomplicating Management, I profiled him, focusing on his vision and leadership skills.

I'd like to wish you a wonderful holiday season.

Rick Dacri