With any business (perhaps contrary to some people's beliefs) the most important asset you have is your team.
I have a fairly strong objection to the term "human resources" - it sounds like the people in your company are catalogued and accounted for; just variables in an equation - and diminishes their true value.
They are the source of your innovation, creativity, intuition - their hard work creates your products, their diligence and patience results in good customer service. So building the right team is one of the most important things to do when in a business.
Finding the right people is hard enough, but keeping them is trickier still.
"Don't forget that talented people can always find another job if things go wrong, but it's your business"
So how do you keep the good people once you've found them? Well there are no guarantees but here are 10 things you can do to help:
1.) Get rid of the bad people
Sounds harsh, but it's absolutely essential - Bright and talented professionals like to work with bright and talented professionals. Not only will your team be more productive - the process will be more enjoyable. Also learn to spot the politicians and the
'yes-men' - they are like bad apples and can undo all the hard work you have done. You want to build a team based on delivering results, not appearing to deliver.
2.) Trust your team
Don't put restrictions on Internet access, or get snippy about timekeeping. Professional people respond to being treated as such and won't take advantage. If you feel the need to start implementing such policies you've either hired the wrong people or you've
got bigger issues lurking.
3. ) Be clear about your expectations (and don't micro manage)
People like to know what's expected of them and if they are meeting those expectations. Set them a task, when it's finished - review and give feedback (positive or negative).
4.) Understand their motivations
Every team member will be different, understand what drives them to excel. Never try to motivate you team with the threat of loosing their job - no one has ever reached their potential whilst worrying about the next paycheque.
5.) Make work fun
Yes there has to be hard work too, but don't forget people often spend more time with their colleagues than friends or family - coming to work should be an enjoyable experience.
6.) Understand their jobs
One of the most common sources of friction in the office is people not feeling understood by their managers and/or being overworked.
7.) Don't mess them around
Do what you say you are going to, especially if it involves money. If you want them to be reliable they have a right to expect you to be too.
8.) Always back them over clients and suppliers
Tricky one, but if you're not prepared to stand by your team members then maybe they shouldn't be in your team. Knowing you have faith in them builds confidence.
9.) Believe in the goals, virtues and principles of your company
Because if you don't, your team won't.
10.) Be honest and open
Trust, respect and leadership are all built on honest communication. Sometimes the truth can have complicated connotations but that shouldn't prevent you from saying it. Have faith in your team to see the bigger picture.