Our focus in this issue of What Works is on finding and managing the right workers for your small business. Assembling a great staff requires smart recruitment techniques. Once you've hired your team, a workplace orientation and manual can help keep employees informed and in line.

This issue's Q&A can help you create behavioral standards for your business.
Check out the What Works for Business blog for more ideas on how to manage your business and news on the latest solutions for small business. Sign up for the RSS feed to receive automatic updates.




Creating Behavior Standards for your Business

Q. Dear Dan: I’m old-school when it comes to manners, and some of the behavior I see from my employees is disappointing. They are otherwise good workers, but is there a way to create my own standards? – Old School Manners

A. Dear Old School: Employees often do little things that you wish they wouldn’t, such as rough language, poor cell phone etiquette or over-the-top political arguments. Many business owners are reluctant to try and control such behavior when employee performance is otherwise good. But you can legislate good behavior - and what’s more, most employees will be glad you did. Find out how...



Employee Recruitment Techniques
By Linda Formichelli
If you're doing everything from answering the phones to charting the future course of your business, chances are you could use some new good workers. Read how recruiting the best employees can help grow your business, save money, and keep your customers happy.

Guide to Employee Orientation
By Topher Liddle
Employee retention can be impacted by a number of different organizational forces, which start the moment the employee steps in the door to interview for the job. One of the most important things to remember is that first impressions can set the tone for the whole experience. A great employee orientation can ensure that both the employee and the organization are on the same page. Read this guideon how to improve retention!

Creating an Employee Manual
By Kay Bell
Make sure your employees know all the policies, processes and rules by putting your operational procedures in writing. An employee manual informs workers of expectations, laws, and company information. Here are some things to consider in developing a manual for your business…

Guide to Disciplining Employees
By Judy Rakowsky
Firing an employee risks litigation and other expenses and brings unpleasantness for all involved. But even though you may want to avoid swinging the axe, it doesn’t mean you should allow problems to fester. Follow these steps to rehabilitate problematic employees…