5 Ways to Make Your Staff Love Their Jobs & Why It Matters

Pharmacy ownership shares many traits with more traditional business ownership. While every industry has it’s own niches, nuances, and problems, everyone can relate to the struggle of staffing their companies. Offering a candidate a fair wage and a free uniform is no longer enough. Many workers view their jobsas more than a paycheck and rather something they and even . You’ll never find a more productive, loyal, and profitable employee than one who feels appreciated, needed, and is genuinely happy to come to work.

According to a survey conducted by the staffing firm Manpower Group, nearly two-thirds of the American workforce are not happy with their current jobs. That’s two-thirds of employees who dread going to work, dislike their boss, and more often than not, make it blatantly evident to customers. Think about the last time you had poor service – did it make you want to go back?

You naturally want your staff to love working for you and research shows that you’re justified in seeking ways to make this happen. Here are five ways to create employee satisfaction and turn your employees into brand ambassadors who love your customers:

Be Willing to Step In

As a company owner, you must be willing to get your hands dirty. Your time is ultimately best spent operating your pharmacy, but opportunities will arise that will allow you to lead your team in the best way eg; by example. Your team members need to know that you can and will step in and provide support when they need it. Leading by example creates an environment where everyone is willing to pitch in and help no matter how hard the job is. This technique will create a culture of accountability and mutual support and will help propel your business toward greater success.

Define Pharmacy Goals

Defining goals doesn’t automatically sound like something that would cause your employees to love you, but a simple display of forward-thinking shows them how much you care about them. When a company sets, strives for, and achieves their goals, everyone wins. Devoting the time to create a business roadmap will help create an environment of security. An owner who cares enough to keep their eye on the horizon is one that deserves the loyalty of his staff.

Create Continuous Improvement Plans and Education

The vast majority of people don’t come to work every day to fail, or to feel like they’re failing. Develop personal growth strategies for all of your employees, but especially those who are facing difficult times personally or professionally. Be clear about what you need from them while they’re on the clock, but lead with empathy. If an employee needs additional training, resources, or a little more time and you believe they can become a valuable asset, help them. When things turn around for them, they’ll be one of your most loyal employees.

For your employees who excel, foster continuous education plans for them. Develop career tracks that allow them to train for higher positions. Investing in their future is investing in your future.

Be Diligent About Hiring

The single greatest asset your pharmacy has is your staff. Show them how much you appreciate them, by being diligent during your hiring process. Take into consideration how a candidate would fit in with your current team dynamics. Do they have the skills your team needs right now? You may not always make the right decision, but the mere fact that you carefully vetted candidates will earn you the respect of your employees.

Never Stop Showing Gratitude

Yes, you pay them a fair wage for a day’s work. But, you should always be grateful for the excellent team you have. Don’t simply take your rockstar employees for granted, thank them. Show them your gratitude, let them know that you appreciate and need them. Beyond money or fancy gifts, employees want to know that they are making a difference in your pharmacy and their community. Tell them, show them and do it often.

Creating a culture of happiness in the workplace starts with you, the pharmacy leader. If you put the right framework inplace, you are setting yourself and your pharmacy up for success. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty, work alongside your team, and clearly define team goals. Offer career advancement opportunities, avoid hiring the wrong people, and show your team that they are appreciated and valued. Follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way to creating an enjoyable work environment and being an admired pharmacy owner.

Interested in making some changes in your pharmacy to create a better work environment? Download our free ebook The Pharmacy Owner’s Guide to Exceptionally Effective Implementation