February 11, 2014 – Valentine’s Day isn’t just for lovers. Smart leaders know it’s also an opportunity to let valued employees know they matter. Based on their bestseller Love ’Em or Lose ’Em: Getting Good People to Stay, authors Beverly Kaye and Sharon Jordan-Evans have crafted, from A to Z, specific – not material – gifts employers may offer star team members.
(A) Private time with you.
Schedule lunch dates with employees. Tell them how critical they are to the organization. Then ASK them questions, like: What can I do to keep you on my team? What could I do to be more supportive or to help you be even more effective?
(B) A long-awaited action item – done!
Think about an employee who’s asked you for something you’ve put on your “to do” list. Stop passing the BUCK. Surprise that employee – and just do it!
(C) An honest talk about the future.
Have a CAREER conversation with an employee. Ask the following questions to get the conversation started: What part of your current job do you enjoy doing the most? Least? What different jobs might you like to see yourself doing in the future?
(D) The honor of representing the company at a conference.
Offer DIGNITY - the chance to attend an outside conference/seminar series designed especially for their affinity group.
(E) A chance to grow professionally.
Allow the employee to choose from a list of potential projects, assignments and tasks that could ENRICH his or her work.
To see the whole list of ways to engage stellar employees through praise and appreciation, including tips from F to Z. visit Career Systems International’s website.
About the Authors
Beverly Kaye is internationally recognized as one of the most invested, knowledgeable and practical professionals in the areas of career development, employee engagement and retention, and mentoring. The founder of Career Systems International, she has developed a powerful suite of talent solutions that continue to help organizations reduce costs associated with talent loss and underperformance.
Sharon Jordan-Evans co-authored, with Beverly Kaye, two Wall Street Journal bestsellers. Love 'Em or Lose 'Em: Getting Good People to Stay, and Love It, Don't Leave It: 26 Ways to Get What You Want at Work. The president of the Jordan Evans Group, she is a pioneer in the field of employee retention.
