Dear Dr. Mimi:
I know the economy is improving, and I have some really great employees. How do I make sure I keep them?
—Concerned Manager

Dear Concerned Manager:
Many companies claim that their most valuable resources walk out of the building every evening, but they do very little to show employees how much they are valued. Keeping your best employees when money is tight makes this harder. I suggest sitting down and talking with each of your employees and letting them know what you appreciate about them and letting them know you want them to stay. This may seem obvious, but if you don’t tell them, how will they truly know? More than money, people want to feel appreciated.
In addition, asking their opinion, mutually setting goals and giving feedback on past projects can make employees feel more connected to you as a manager and to the company where you both work. Discussing career paths with employees individually can also build loyalty and renew their sense of appreciation for you and the company. Communication is vital to keeping your employees satisfied with their job and making sure they feel valued by the company.
—Dr. Mimi