Access Communications, a PR firm in San Francisco was recognized as one of the "Best Place to Work in the Bay Area". So what makes this a great place to work? Susan G. Butenhoff, Access president and CEO puts it this way:
"To attract and retain the best players, you need to treat people right. Today's workforce expects more from employers. Whether it's telecommuting, fun-filled 'Whoopee Events' or a full curriculum of professional training that builds expertise and value for our staff, we know that investing in our people pays off handsomely for both us and our clients."
Annmarie Edwards, author of 50 Tips to Energize Your Workforce provides a sampler of Seven Secrets to an Energized Workforce:
1.Build bridges. The formation of a strong social network is vital to building connections within staff. A social network has many benefits such as increased productivity, improved communication, and a greater commitment from employees.
2. Lend an ear. An open door policy enables employees to talk to management freely about work-related matters without feeling intimidated.
3. Facilitate teamwork. Empower employees through team building activities, which can help to create a sense of belonging. Team building can also improve productivity as teams are challenged to compete with each other.
4.Educate staff members. Learning new skills is empowering. Conduct career development workshops to identify and expand individuals skills.
5. A motivated and energetic staff is key to productivity. By sharing the mission and vision of the company, employees will be motivated to work toward company objectives. They will be aware of what the company hopes to achieve in the short-and long-term, and how important their individual role is to the company's vision.
6. Fun is a highly effective motivator. Leaders can infuse fun into the workplace by organizing events for staff members such as: bowling parties, after-work social events, luncheons, and holiday parties.
7. Happiness is contagious. Leaders who display a positive attitude and pleasant demeanor, and who set a positive example will energize their workforce and increase employee job satisfaction.
For me, personally, I feel that strong leadership is important- where employees can clearly see the goals of the company, the department, their team, etc.; see that competent managers are leading the way toward those goals; and actually see the progress that's been made. I also feel that investment in employees training is crucial. Star employees are always pursuing personal and professional growth and development, so a company that promotes and/or provides opportunities for learning and growth will most likely keep those star employees.
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