Issa Asad Explains How to Be an Inspiring Leader in 2020

For your small business to be successful, of course you are willing to work hard. But it’s not enough. You can’t do it alone.

“You need your employees to be committed to your business’ success as well,” said Issa Asad Florida entrepreneur and businessman since 1996. Mr. Asad is the CEO of Q Link Wireless, Hello Mobile, and Quadrant Holdings, all located in South Florida. He is also the author of 4 e-commerce and marketing e-books that can be purchased on Amazon.

Taking steps to keep your employees motivated can mean the difference between building a company that thrives or having one constantly struggling to stay afloat.

Here, Issa Asad Explains How to Be an Inspiring Leader in 2020:

1. Show Your Employees You Value Them

If you’ve only got two employees, then adopting an “Employee of the Month” program would be ridiculous. But a word of recognition and appreciation goes a long way. Take the time to personally tell your staff when they are doing a good job. If you’ve had a particularly grueling quarter, give them gift certificates to a restaurant, or even just to the coffee place down the street. Small gestures show that you are paying attention and helps workers feel appreciated.

2. Inspire Your Employees to Do Their Job

Okay, so maybe you can’t expect your employees to wake up every morning thinking, “Oh boy! I get to go to work today!” But at least you can make an effort to create a work environment where people can enjoy themselves.

3. Encourage Your Employees to Know Each Other

If your employees can forge ties with their fellow workers, and develop friendships, then time spent at the workplace can mean spending time with people they enjoy being around. Help facilitate these friendships by encouraging socializing during lunch or after hours. For example, schedule a monthly potluck lunch where everyone brings something to share. Allow music to be played during the lunch hour and even extend the lunch break a bit. There is something about sharing food that always brings people together.

4. Let Your Employees Customize Their Workspaces

You will probably need to establish some guidelines (no flashing strobe lights or incense, for example), but encourage workers to personalize their workspace. Allow plants, artwork and fun accessories to be displayed. Move away from stodgy, functional office furniture and use less traditional pieces in their place. When people are happy in their space, they are also more productive.

5. Talk to Your Employees

Unless you have thousands of employees, taking the time to personally connect with each of your staff can be invaluable. Schedule time to meet with each one personally over the course of the year. Ask them questions about their job, find out what they enjoy doing and what they hate. Be open to their suggestions. You can learn a great deal by listening to what your employees are thinking and observing. By giving each individual a chance to connect with you, they are more likely to reveal things they wouldn’t in a group setting, such as a staff meeting.

6. Just Set a Good Example for Your Employees

There is no bigger motivation-killer than watching your supervisor regularly take a two-hour lunch while you slave away at your desk. Of course, they might be important working lunches, but perceptions can be misleading. If you want your employees to work hard, let them see you working even harder (because undoubtedly, you are).

A good rule to follow when deciding how best to motivate your employees is simply this: treat others the way you would like to be treated. Put yourself in their shoes, and think about what would inspire you to work harder. Chances are, your employees will appreciate the effort. The results will benefit you, your employees and your business.