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Benefits November 20, 2008
Talk, Talk, Talk to Boost Morale
November 20, 2008 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - A new survey
sponsored by Accountemps suggests frequent dialogue with
employees may be the best way to raise their
spirits.
Reported by Rebecca Moore
Nearly half (48%) of executives interviewed cited better communication as the best remedy for low morale, while one-third of respondents said lack of open and honest communication with staff members tops the list of management missteps that can erode morale, according to a press release.
Other remedies for low morale cited by respondents included:
- Recognition programs: 19%,
- Monetary awards for exceptional performance: 13%,
- Unexpected rewards (e.g., gift certificates or sporting event tickets): 11%,
- Team-building events or meetings: 5%, and
- Additional days off: 3%.
When executives were asked, “Which one of the following has the most negative impact on employee morale?” their responses included:
- Lack of open, honest communication: 33%,
- Failure to recognize employee achievements: 19%,
- Micromanaging employees: 17%,
- Excessive workloads for extended periods: 16%, and
- Fear of job loss: 14%.
The survey was conducted by an independent research firm and is based on interviews with 150 senior executives from the nation’s 1,000 largest companies.