My favorite phrase is, “Take care of your people and your people will take care of you.” After all, your most important assets are your employees.
This can be achieved in a number of ways — starting with proper training. For example, we have implemented a training program to have each new employee work and train in all departments of our facilities. Each employee will know how each department runs and know where everything is inside the facility.
By doing this, not only are you giving them the knowledge, but you are also empowering them. They will not ever have to use the phrase “I don’t know.” This also helps the workflow. For example, if there is a spill, every employee knows where cleaning supplies are located and it can be handled promptly.
Another way to take care of your employees is through incentivizes. It does not have to be anything extravagant, but a little incentive goes a long way. It helps the employees remain motivated when they are incentivized. A simple thing like a $25 gift card or an item from our Gold’s Gym pro-shop is always appreciated.
Lastly, it’s important to treat every employee equally as a member of the family. We treat every staff member as a member of a team. We are all one team. We all pitch in to help in all areas of the facility.
I also train them and lead by example. I would never ask an employee to do anything that I have not done or cannot do myself. It is important to earn respect from your employees in this way.
No one likes the “do as I say, not as I do,” approach, or someone barking orders from behind a desk. They appreciate you more when you get your hands dirty. “Great leaders don’t tell you what to do, they show you how it’s done.”
It is important to appreciate each member of your team. Thank them for a job well done. Let them know that good work does not go unnoticed.
