To show your employees that you care about them, and work at building trust, respect and loyalty, consider these ideas: (different strategies are appropriate for different situations and relationships)

 

1. Randomly, without any prompting, look them in the eye and say, "I really appreciate the work you did on that project."
2. Compliment them on something people may not often acknowledge -- like their work ethic, or consideration for other people.
3. Give them a book you've already read, and inscribe it with a meaningful message.
4. Tell them they were so right about something and let them know how that information impacted your life.
5. Ask, "How are you -- really?" Then do nothing but listen and respond to what you hear for as long as they'd like to talk.
6. Ask, "What can I do to help you today?"
7. Notice how they affect other people - not you-and comment positively on it.
8. See their potential, and encourage them to pursue their dreams.
9. Ask them to retell their favorite story.
10. Tell them which qualities of theirs you admire.
11. Introduce them to someone else as, "My valued assistant who taught me..." or something similar.
12. Introduce them to something new that you think would enrich their lives.
13. Let them be right, even if you think they're not, if it's not that big of a deal.
14. Ask their advice on something important, and tell them their opinion is important to you.
15. Notice when they do something that might have been challenging, and applaud their efforts.
16. Tell them you understand their struggle -- whatever that may be -- and let them know you are willing to help.
17. Say thank you for something they don't realize they gave you, like inspiration to seize the day, or a tip on how to handle something challenging.
18. Let them know how they helped you think about something differently. For example, if someone gave you a whole different perspective on a situation, let them know that.
19. Surprise them in some way with something you know they'll enjoy.
20. Ask how their big day went -- whatever that big day may have been.
21. Share their pain when they have it, and just let them know you care.
22. Be honest about something that could help them, even if it's uncomfortable for you.
23. Forgive something they did that hurt you without needing to hear the words, "I'm sorry."
24. Look out for someone they love.
25. Remember something they said that they thought you didn't hear.
26. Help them reconnect with something or someone important in their life.

 

 

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Teresa Gilbert is founder of Pathways to Excellence, LLC, a company devoted to inspring excellence in others, empowering them to rise to their potential and "unleash the leader within"! She is also a Consultant, Leadership Coach, and author.  

If you liked today's issue, you'll love Teresa's dynamic coaching and training in the form of on-demand training, on-site presentations and one-on-one consulting. See more about Teresa and Pathways programs here.

Teresa Gilbert, "Live Your Leadership Mentor"
Pathways to Excellence, LLC
teresa@teresagilbert.com
Phone:  618-521-1917   |  Fax:  618-223-5181