Do You Devote Time to Each Employee?

It's easy for a small business operator to delude herself or himself into thinking she or he devotes attention to each employee.

Here is the critical question, "When you give your attention to an employee, does he or she have to share it with the other employees?"

Years ago, a youth leader was teaching us to be a camp counselor. He told us one thing which was indelibly etched in my mind forever. He said, "When you spend time with your campers, make sure you give each one some time that is their own private time with you alone." He went on to explain how such simple actions like taking one child on an errand or sitting with a camper apart from the others or giving an opportunity to chat in private. Casual and non-threatening moments of silence were just as effective.

Later, as our family grew to include six children I remembered that advice. The resulting rewards and appreciation created many fond memories for me to cherish throughout my life.

Also later, I translated this wisdom into my management style. Employees are people with feelings just as children are people with feelings. The needs to feel wanted, appreciated and reassured are the same regardless of age. We crave to receive some indication to our eternal question, "How am I doing?"

Having a personal chat during a formal one-on-one evaluation or in other such meetings can be construed as contrived even when they are genuinely sincere. These should not be included in your private time.

You may not feel comfortable or it may be risky to have personal private time with certain employees. Another supervisor can be your surrogate for passing on your fond regards and appreciation.

Meaningful acts can be as simple as:

* performing a brief task together yet within view of others. * a personal, "Can I buy you a cup of coffee." * a brief private compliment following an accomplishment. * a whispered, "Well done" comment. * a lingering hand on the (same gender) shoulder while walking side by side. * a finger touch to the forearm just below the elbow is quite safe.

People you pay to perform tasks treasure more than money alone.

There are subtle ways we can treat all people as sensitive children without being a nurturing parent figure. All situations are different. You have the concept expressed by the youth leader. Adopt it wisely and with caring.

Be caring to one another - even amid the trials and tribulations of business affairs.

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