Indonesia Job

Monday, October 25, 2010

8 Tips for Keeping Your Staff Happy

by articlesbase com




A happy staff makes for happy patients, and happy patients means more business. You will also find that employees are more productive, and you will be more likely to retain them, which will save you the time and cost of training new workers. Putting a little more time and effort into keeping everyone happy is a win-win!

1. Provide training.  When a new staff member starts, take the time to show them the ropes. Even if they've done the job before, it may be valuable for them to "shadow" someone for a day or two to learn the policies and procedures specific to your practice. But don't stop the training there. Providing employees with opportunities to grow can make them feel their career is moving forward. Check out seminars, trade shows, and other learning opportunities in your area. If you can't afford formal classes, consider having employees within the company share their knowledge with the rest of the staff. 

2. Show your appreciation.  Make a point to praise your employees at least once a day. You'll be surprised how much of a difference it makes when people feel recognized for their efforts. Bonuses, parties, and other special perks are other ways to show your appreciation. You can award the staff for referring new patients or doing well on the job.

3. Communicate with your staff.  If they don't get their information from you, they'll get it from the practice's rumor mill. Keep such speculation at bay by being open and honest about what's happening in the practice. You should also hold regular staff meetings to promote problem solving, share news, and recognize accomplishments. Make it clear year-round that you have an "open door" policy, so employees feel like they can come to you with problems or their ideas for improving things.

4. Conduct evaluations.  Twice a year is a good rule of thumb. In your feedback, be sure to point to the areas where the worker is excelling. If an employee has problem areas, be constructive in your criticism: provide advice on how to improve. It's also a good idea to let the staff evaluate you, so you can find new ways to meet their needs and help the practice run more smoothly.

5. Follow your own policies.  If you set a rule, stick to it – for yourself and others. This will help others to take you more seriously, and cut down on resentment about preferential treatment.

6. Be positive.  Don't complain about patients or other workers in front of your staff. Doing so can foster a negative environment. Need to vent? Save it for your friends and family. If you have a problem with someone's work, speak to them in private.

7. Socialize.  If you have a personal relationship with someone, it's easier to communicate with them. Throw company parties to foster this environment. They don't need to be fancy. You can even make it a potluck!

8. Be flexible.  If you respect the fact that your staff has a life outside of the office, your practice will be more likely to retain employees. It doesn't mean you have to give in to every request made by a staff member, but within reason, make compromises to ensure that they are able to comfortably balance their home and work life. Avoid asking your staff to put in long hours or overtime when possible.



Bookmark          
        and   Share

No comments:

Post a Comment