Here's a Top 10 list outlining the elements for an attractive work environment found in many successful companies:

1. A sense of teamwork. Employers & employees benefit from an atmosphere that encourages cooperation & builds loyalty.

2. Proper training. Teaching employees how to do their jobs demonstrates to them how much they’re valued. Giving them tools to do the job well.

Teach the function of the job, the "how" & also explain the subjective side. Things like smile, personality, positive attitude, communication skills & sales training.

3. Opportunity for development. Even top employees will seek jobs elsewhere if they see no room for advancement. Reward excellent behavior. Promote from within. Adopt policies that encourage people to be achievers. 4. A genuine caring attitude. Getting to know employees. Learning their needs, goals & concerns. If someone is having a problem on the job, management must be willing to help. Family unity. 5. Performance feedback. Good employees need strokes; borderline workers need to know where & how they must improve to meet standards. Balance feedback, plus & minus. 6. Open, informal communication. Create two-way lines of dialogue. Solicit employee feedback all areas. Communicate clearly in writing, verbally.

7. Tailored benefits & incentives. Design incentive programs based on specific sales goals & guest satisfaction.

"Designer" benefit packages & incentive-based compensation are increasingly well received by employees today. Offering bonuses for superior performance is on the increase.

8. Honesty & integrity. These qualities are especially essential when dealing with staff. People want the true facts, not gossip. They want to be treated fairly.

9. Well-conceived systems. Workers feel their job is easier when they get support from well thought out & planned systems. Qualities that contribute to a more pleasant working environment & help to attract as well as keep employees.

10. A defined mission. People need to know that they’re contributing to something meaningful. Good companies possess a strong sense of what they’re all about & communicate that purpose to employees.

It’s no coincidence that many of the elements for an attractive work environment also describe some of the most-admired companies.

When employees are happy, love their work, they create a positive effect on business....... & turnover is reduced.

Megan Rowe,
Editor Lodging Hospitality Magazine