On Fri, 21 Dec 2012 07:27:21 -0600, George Leppla
> wrote:



>I think it goes beyond that. When I was in retail management, I noticed
>that there were "happy" stores... stores where the employees seems
>friendlier than other stores that were pretty close by. I noticed that
>the managers of the "happy" stores tended to be more outgoing and
>friendly and approachable to their employees. Managers who were "by the
>book" types tended to have less friendly stores (and a higher employee
>turnover rate).
>
>A buddy and I decided to try this in our own stores... we tried to "walk
>the floor" every day and said hello to every employee and listen to them
>if they had suggestions, etc. We got to know them a people, not just
>employees. It didn't take long to see a difference in attitude.

I do the same thing. I see every employee every day. I make it a
point to say hello and give them the opportunity to talk if they so
desire. It save a lot of aggravation by listening to what they say
and taking action if needed. Workers that feel connected do a better
job and care about doing a good job for the customer. Sometimes they
just want to say something about a TV show from the night before,
other times it is to tell me about a safety issue they noticed, or
some supplies getting low.

Profit sharing and bonuses are important too. Employees will take the
time to do things right and keep cost down if they know they will be
rewarded for their efforts.