Patrick Ropella

Q: How do I keep my employees happy?

A: Every business, large or small, gains from investing in employee satisfaction. Unhappy employees not only bring down moral, but also leave customers with a negative impression of your company. Make your employees feel respected and valued with a few simple motivational practices:
■  Keep your door open. Provide workers the opportunity to “vent” and offer suggestions and they will feel valued, a key element to job satisfaction.
■  Make sure your expectations are consistent. Convey your performance expectations clearly and hand out responsibilities fairly and equally across the board.
■  Acknowledge achievement. Provide sincere and timely praise for accomplishments that merit recognition. A little praise can go a long way.