One of the best ways to increase your company’s bottom line is by ensuring your customers are well taken care of. The best way to do that is to maximize your talent in your employees. People don’t do business with companies; they do business with the people at the company. By maximizing your talent, you will also be on your way to a great retention program, keeping those valued employees.
Make Good Hires The first step is to hire right. This sounds easy enough, but we know it can be difficult. Hire individuals with enthusiasm, who are quick thinking and problem solvers. Their background should have transferrable skills that will work within your company. Once you have great employees in place, step out of their way and let them do their work.
Provide Resources Employees are looking for a place to work that continually offers resources to grow. Invest in coaching and leadership development in your staff. Investing in your staff is, in return, an investment in your customer.
Cut Low Performers If you have people on your team that are continually underperforming, causing conflict and not following through, it may be time to let them go. Failure to take action could be costing your company large sums in lost revenue, productivity and reputation, not to mention hurting your team environment and top performers.
Recognize Your High Achievers It is common to have a handful of people doing a vast amount of work. Let those individuals know how much they are appreciated by recognition, a gift, bonus, etc. Don’t let hard work go unnoticed.
Ask and Listen You can learn a lot by asking your team their opinions. After you ask, take the time to really listen. They are on your front line and more than likely have ideas that could save you time and money. By being present in the conversation you are also setting a great example of a strong team environment.
Just by implementing these simple steps, you will start to maximize your talent and in turn, customer satisfaction. By continuing to encourage a team environment, continued learning, and open communication, you will also be retaining those top performers.
