Being a good boss or manager means taking on a lot of different responsibilities, especially if you are a small business owner. You are the leader; all others should follow your example, so make sure it’s a positive one. This isn’t always the easiest task because we’re human, but setting a bad example can hurt your reputation and your employee rapport. For instance, if you’re always in a bad mood everyone in your employ will have a bad attitude. Holding employees back or withholding rewards for your own gain can create disappointment and dissension. Taking advantage of their abilities can teach them that they can also take advantage of their peers (or, even worse, customers) without consequences. Setting a constant good example can be exhausting, but Paul Spiegelman, founder and CEO of The Beryl Companies, created 10 simple rules to making employees happy:<\/p>\n
1.\tGive them a voice.<\/strong> Listen to them. Implement their ideas. Give them all the credit.<\/p>\n 2.\tPay them fairly.<\/strong> To build a great culture, you have to have the basics in place. That means reasonable compensation and benefits. You don\u2019t have to be at the top of the market. But if you try to create a culture of fun and miss the money part, it will appear disingenuous.<\/p>\n 3.\tRecognize and reward.<\/strong> Don\u2019t just give them more cash. People want to feel valued. Ask them how they want to be recognized; you\u2019ll be surprised at some of the answers.<\/p>\n