It is very interesting to be aware of what some businesses are doing in these economic times.  Some of these things are positive and some of them are negative.  The positive things are helping businesses and negative things are hurting them.
Lets take a look at some of these things.  Some of the positive things are that businesses that value their employees are doing things for them, such as providing them with something to show appreciation for them on their birthday.  Having special events and providing a meal as part of the event for all employees.  They provide special gifts for all employees at Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Perhaps the most appreciated thing is they tell each employee the good things they are doing and use positive reinforcement.
These employees are motivated and are constantly being appreciated and encouraged.  These businesses are doing well.
On the other hand, there are businesses that value profit more than employees.  They have created an atmosphere where employees are restricted from talking with customers to move customers in and out of their businesses faster and increase profits.  They do not listen to the suggestions of employees.  Employees are considered an object in the company.  These companies are not supportive of their employees and have created an atmosphere that customers are noticing.
Customers are experiencing less enjoyment when they go into these businesses.  These businesses are creating a downward trend which may be hurting them more than they realize.
Employees are the ones who interact with customers the most.  Employees are the ones who customers see as the business.  If a business is not treating its employees well, then in a manner it is not treating its customers well.  Customers desire to have a pleasant experience and interact with employees in a positive manner.
What can cause a business to stand out over its competitors in a distinctly positive way is the experience customers have with employees.  Which side of the line is the business you are involved with on?  Is it on the positive side or the negative side?
Gary Haggart, CPC, is a management, marketing and performance development consultant, facilitator and problem solver.  He can be reached at 661-259-2530.