The Costco Connection - December 2014

14 ;e Costco Connection DECEMBER 2014

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observations and steps to ensure you correctly captured the essence of what’s important to the employee and to display your commitment to engage him or her.

Execute the plan. If a manager commits to identifying actions and doesn’t follow through, irreparable harm can be done.

“The ALIVE treatment plan is an opportunity to connect and build an environment where managers are constantly taking the temperature of their team to ensure it is just right,” says Ross. “This free investment will pay off handsomely, resulting in employee engagement, increased productivity, higher customer satisfaction and increased profitability.” C

ful referrals. Offer a reward of $250 to staff members who refer successful hires. After the new hire completes his or her first week of employment, pay $100 to the person who referred the new hire, and pay an additional bonus of $150 when the new employee completes the first three months of employment.

This also motivates the staff member who referred the new employee to help him or her do well in the new job. Alternatives to a cash bonus could include gift certificates for goods or services from your own company; tickets to movies, local theaters or concerts; or gift certificates to local restaurants. [Or to Costco—Editor]

Put the word out to your network.

Utilize your network of personal and business associates who have an interest in the success of your business. Ask customers, clients, suppliers, bankers, lawyers, accountants and others to help you identify qualified candidates. Use both your offline social network as well as your online one.

Facebook and LinkedIn are helpful in finding and evaluating candidates.

Scout talent. Always be on the lookout for talent for your organization. You might meet your next rising star at a conference, on a vacation or in line at an event. Wherever you go, notice those who provide great service. Those who show enthusiasm and skill at their current jobs may be good prospects for an open position at your company. After all, who is a better judge of that than you? C