In times of economic challenge, I think it’s fair to say that we’re all impacted.  Some companies will flourish while others struggle.  10% of the workforce has lost their livelihood.  The remaining employees may stay employed, but find that they’re doing more work than they did in easier times, wearing more hats, and perhaps earning less pay with fewer perks.

With the above weighing heavily on employee satisfaction levels, some 54 percent of employees plan to search for new jobs once the economy rebounds, according to a survey by Adecco Group North America, a work force solutions provider.

If ever there was a time when leadership mattered, this is it.  Great leaders will emerge, providing excitement, growth and enrichment to their labor force.  According to Susan Scott, author of Fierce Leadership, “If you want to become a great leader, gain the capacity to connect with your colleagues and customers at a deep level… or lower your aim.”

What does this mean to you and to your organization?  Do you personally make the effort to connect with your employees and customers?  This can mean many things…  If there is a conflict between two employees, are you ignoring it in hopes that it will resolve itself, or actively working with the impacted employees to resolve it?  Is there a customer you are worried about losing – so you are ducking their phone calls and responding with email?

Find the courage to reach out to your customers in person.  Take them to lunch, or out for a coffee.  Schedule a visit to their office so you can sit in the same room, make eye contact, and assure them of their importance to you.

The same goes for your employees.  When was the last time you sat down with the individuals on our team and talked, really talked, with them?  An employee is typically loyal to their manager vs. their company.  If you understand their lives, hopes and dreams, you will find that you are in a better position to challenge them and reward them in a manner they will respond to.  Ask for their opinions and be prepared to listen to their response.  Encourage open communication.

If you are open with your employees and customers, if you are willing to have the necessary conversations and take the time to understand the real issues, then you will truly be in a position to lead your team, and enhance not only satisfaction but productivity as well.