Improving Relationships with your Employees

Many years ago I took a course for President’s at Aileron, outside of Dayton, Ohio.  The company was started by billionaire Clay Mathile to help business owners/CEOs to take their company to the next level.  As I learned more about Mr. Mathile, I learned he was a big believer in the principle – “if you want to grow your business, grow your people”.  I couldn’t agree more.

Leaders often talk about operating capital, investment capital, etc. but often forget to focus on the most important thing… human capital.  Your people are the lifeblood of your business.  It is important to give them a career path and purpose, and not just a job.

A good way to do this I have learned is to incorporate what is commonly referred to as “ownership thinking”.  When employees feel they are an integral part of the success of the company, their behavior towards its success/failure will also change.  When you are transparent with them about finances, challenges, etc. they feel empowered and valued in the work they are doing. If you take it to the next step and implement training programs to help create a career path for them, they get a sense that you care and no longer just view their work as a job.  

If you really want your employees to engage in ownership thinking, another great way to accomplish this is by incorporating financial incentive plans where everyone is rewarded for successes of the company.  This will more closely align the relationships between the employer and employee, and is a springboard into increased collaboration and exceeding results.

“Always treat your employees the way you want them to treat your BEST customers.“                                                               Stephen R. Covey

If you are looking for a system to implement to improve company culture or employee morale, please reach out to me.