Right!! It's feeling as if you've don't a great job and that you are appreciated for your hard work. And if that's true, it's up to you as a manager to let employees know that they are appreciated!! Now there are many of you who just aren't comfortable with patting people on back (figuratively, of course). But it really isn't that hard and it does go such a long way in employee motivation department. Look, all you have to do is say - "Jane, you did a great job with x. I really appreciate your hard work."

See - it's that simple! Just remember to deliver pat on back in a timely manner. And be specific about what employee did that was so great. You want them to know what they are doing well so that they keep it up!!

In addition to praising your employees as individuals, you should also strive to reward them as a group. If you have money in your budget, spring for an unscheduled bonus such as gift certificates to local mall (or hardware store - satisfied guys??). Cater in for a fun and unusual lunch -yes, people do tire of pizza.

And if your company has any kind of official employee recognition program - use it and use it often. It's there for a reason!!

Now there are tons of other ways to reward employees - far too many to cover in a short e-zine. So do a little reading on topic. There are scores of great books with fun ideas. One great resource is 1001 Ways to Reward Employees by Bob Nelson.

Now go out there and be a STAR!!!!!

I cannot stress enough how important it is for you to find time to communicate with your staff. You see, employees these days are bombarded with news coverage detailing corporate corruption, layoffs, bankruptcies and economic crisis. Therefore their radar systems are on high alert for any tidbit of info indicating that your company may be having major troubles. And this leads to speculation, rumors, decreased morale, decreased productivity and all around trouble!! Consider scheduling regular informational-type meetings. Use this time to fill your employees in on corporate developments, and offer them an opportunity to ask questions. During these communications, it is vital that you be as honest as possible (without giving away any confidential company information, of course). Your staff will pick up on any attempt to be evasive, and this will only make them more nervous than ever. So when you can, just be honest!! Let your staff know that you are willing to keep lines of communication open and that any time they have a question, they should contact you.

Another way to keep communication flowing is to spend more time in your department. Try to walk around and check in with people on a frequent basis. Let them see that you are accessible and that you are committed to keeping them abreast of important information. This kind of attention will do wonders for stress-level (and therefore productivity) of your employees. In trying times, most managers get really uncomfortable. As a result they tend to shut down and spend less time with their employees. Take open-communication approach, and again, you’ll stand out like a shining star. It’s a win for you, a win for our employees and a win for your company!!