compiled from an article in the New York Times 12/09/08

In our current economic environment, small businesses are looking for ways to increase efficiency and cut cost daily. Protecting employee morale is especially important as we face the downturn. Here are a few simple ideas that do not cost much, but could be great for the mood of the troops!

1. Talk is Cheap - Communicating with employees during times of economic challenge is more important than ever. Employees want to know where the company stands. Closed door strategy sessions, cancelled staff meeting, and being inconsistent in regular communications can lead to unwarranted rumors and fear. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate! Now more than ever it is really important
2. Benefits - During challenging times it is often necessary to curtail and discontinue benefits that are offered to employees. I know of more than one company who has dramatically scaled back the parties for the Christmas season. One benefit that you can offer that typically will cost you very little is Flex-time. It is perceived as a very valuable benefit to employees and in the long run, should not cost the employer anything.
3. Have Customers Do Work For You - I know it sound crazy, but stay with me for a minute! Think of the examples from  everyday life where we all do work for the companies whose services we use. We bank with ATM machines, we book travel on line, we fill up our own cup at the local burger joint, we pump our own gas, we check ourselves in at the airport. All of these things are examples of companies letting us do work for them. Look around your operations. Is there anywhere you can have the customer do some of the work? Interesting to think about!