Proactive Ways to Increase Employee Satisfaction

We’ve talked in recent months about ways in which to effectively cope with current economic conditions ( "What’s Your Strategy," "Adding to Your Team on a Tight Budget"). In this month’s issue, we’re going to address another way in which to do so, and that involves the importance of maintaining good morale with your current team, not only for increased productivity, but also for greater rates of retention.

The fact of the matter is that employees have become rather estranged from their employers. This has been happening for more than a decade, but the phenomenon has increased during the past few years. A major problem with this is that many times company officials are not aware of it. They assume that all is well, because everything looks like it’s "business as usual." But looks can most definitely be deceiving. That’s why it’s important to make sure that you’re doing everything you can to counteract whatever employee dissatisfaction might be brewing within the ranks.

Their state of mind . . .

First and foremost, let’s examine the ways in which employees may withdraw from their employers and not put forth the kind of effort that leads to maximum productivity and a greater sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

• The "WIIFM" Effect - We’ve discussed this before in another context. It stands for "What’s In It For Me," and it involves the notion that employees are turning a deaf ear to companies’ appeals for teamwork and the desire to work toward a greater goal. Instead, it’s perceived that they put their individual agendas above the objectives of the company.

• Cynicism - These days, the general rule of thumb is this one: the younger the employee, the more cynical they tend to be about Corporate America, and that’s even if they like what they do. For those employees who have witnessed their co-workers lose their jobs - or have been on the receiving end of a pink slip themselves - that cynicism can grow daily.

• "The Great Escape" syndrome - Unfortunately, some employees are currently plotting their escape without their employers even knowing they’re doing so. And considering that the recovery of the economy appears to be in its early stages, many people are just biding their time until there are more options available.

. . . and what you can do about it

So . . . what can be done in order to effectively combat employee apathy, increase satisfaction, and even generate enthusiasm for your company and its goals? A number of things:

• Face reality - Employees already know which way the wind is blowing. The Internet provides instant news regarding company and industry performance, as well as any lay-off announcements. Attempting to project an appearance not in tune with reality can only serve to hurt your credibility in the eyes of employees. Conversely, acknowledging the reality of the situation will boost your credibility.

• Communicate - When you don’t communicate effectively with employees, especially during times such as these, they automatically dream up the worst-case scenario. It’s just how the human mind works. However, by communicating with them, you can help instill optimism and hope, which is all that many of them want in the first place. If possible, lay out the company’s plan to survive and even thrive during the rough times. They can’t support the plan if they don’t know what it is.

• Show more recognition - This is the easiest, and sometimes most effective, way of increasing employee satisfaction and relieving stress. Something as simple as an encouraging email or a quick chat to show your appreciation of an employee’s hard work and effort is all it takes. People are starving for attention and recognition . . . so give them what they want!

• Show your commitment - You have to "talk the talk" and "walk the walk." This means the willingness to invest in your employees, either through an employee assistance program, additional training, tuition reimbursement, or a revamped compensation structure. The key is to show employees that you’re interested in their future and you’re willing to invest in that future in some tangible way.

• Create an enjoyable company culture - Providing a positive experience for employees is instrumental in convincing them to invest more of themselves in the company and its goals for the future. This could involve initiating a fun atmosphere by holding regular events like a company party or eat-in lunch, and you could also hold an event centered around a special accomplishment by a department or individual . . . thereby accomplishing two objectives at once.

Whatever approach you take to increase employee satisfaction, the worst thing you can do is nothing. Inactivity - especially the lack of communication - in such situations can lead to worsening conditions, sour attitudes, and ultimately, lower levels of productivity and profitability. There is far from "nothing you can do about it." Take pro-active steps today and you’ll help ensure that those employees you need the most will want to stick around when times get better.

(As always, we value your input regarding the content for our newsletter. If you have any ideas or suggestions for future topics, be sure to contact us at melinda@thepittmangroup.com. We look forward to hearing from you.)