One of my favorite movies is Nine to Five starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton. These three secretaries work for a boss who they refer to as a “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.”
Now, I can’t imagine that any one of us would think of our bosses in this way however, this movie makes a strong statement that a leader needs to listen and be positively involved with their employees to promote employee happiness and loyalty.
Related: 4 Challenges That Keep Leaders Up At Night
Since this movie aired 35 years ago, the workplace has seen big changes in how employees are treated by their bosses. Flexible working hours, on-site day care, personalized office spaces and job sharing all make for a more efficient, productive, loyal and happy employee.
Though free lunches, an on-site gym and unlimited vacation time are nice additions to the above benefits, many employees look for more from their boss-employee relationship than these surface perks.
Employees are looking for real connections with their superiors.
Personal recognition.
Career development.
A team mentality and relationship.
A leader willing to work side by side with them.
Employees in this day and age are looking for a connection with their supervisor, manager, and leader. They want consistent recognition for work well done, praise on a regular basis and the ease of working with their superiors side by side.
Related: 30 Fringe Benefits That Will Change Your Employees Lives
Employees want recognition by name and shown a genuine interest in. These small things make a big difference in how employees feel about the company and boss they work for.
Employees don’t want their leaders and managers holed up in their offices giving instructions through assistants or office memos. Even less, employees don’t like their superiors making only occasional appearances.
Everyone wants to feel appreciated and employees are not an exception.
Employees want their leaders and managers treating them like they are more than just no name clerks or office workers. They want to be included to feel part of the business family, connected to the business vision and making a difference to the business’ bottom line.
These are only a few ways leaders can show appreciation for their employees. What have you found that has made your employees feel the most recognized and valued within your business?
Hi, I’m Karen. Welcome to my website! I will show you how to establish the framework for an organized and successful leadership and office management system.
