Happy employees tend to be more productive employees. Therefore, employers should be taking steps to make sure that their employees come to work motivated to do their best each day. What are some of these steps that employers can take to accomplish this goal?

1) Use An Awards System

An awards system is a good way to recognize employees for the work that they do. Get an employee of the month plaque, or have some lapel pins custom made as a cheaper, more discreet option. Some companies even have a trophy that moves from desk to desk each month.

2) Always Be Available To Talk

If an employee has a question or concern, make yourself available to discuss the issue. This will make your employees feel like they can take ownership of what goes on within the company.

3) Say Thank You

These two words are among the most powerful in the English language. The words show appreciation for the hard work done by those working for you. Saying thank you just once or twice a day can motivate employees almost as well as giving them more money.

4) Offer Flexible Scheduling

Employees will love working for you if you can be flexible with how you write the schedule. For some, it is easier to work nights or weekends instead of during the day. If you do this favor for your employees, they will respect you more for it.

5) Don’t Be Afraid To Surprise Employees With Bonuses

Adding an extra $100 to an employee paycheck can be a great way to show how much you care for your employees. This can be the difference between buying Christmas presents for the kids or having no Christmas at all. A small act of kindness like that can go a long way toward developing a great relationship with your workers.

6) Give Them Opportunities For Advancement

Employees hate working hard only to be stuck in the same position that they were in several years ago. After awhile, your workers could burn out if they aren’t given new challenges to tackle. Make sure that everyone has the chance to earn their way to the top of the totem pole if they truly deserve it.

Employers would be wise to follow as many of these tips as possible. They won’t cost a lot of money to implement and can make employees feel appreciated for the work that they do. This is the recipe for success that any company can use no matter how large or small it is.

Angela Prickette is a recent college graduate writing on behalf of lapel pins custom. She works for herself as a freelance writer and photographer. Her favorite activities include, skiing, rock climbing, and personal fitness.