The financial markets seem to be stirring a little bit. Home refinancing is up, and home sales recently reported a movement upward. Some companies are still cutting back and unemployment rises and falls each week like the beach tide. I recently have started to take notice that while those who are employed are counting their stars that they still have a job, some are also making mention of how their employer is treating them like a number instead of a person. Maybe some have taken a cut in pay, or have had work hours reduced, but how does their employer rank (1 thru 10) in communication?
Have companies now become so concerned about cutting costs and reducing expenses to paper thin margins, that empoyee relations have been set aside or ignored? One would think that a company would recognize the need to make sure that their employees where respected and treated ok. I do know of some friends who are being treated well, and who's employer has initiated meetings, or programs to help deal with transitioning changes and adjustments in the work place. Let's face it, people still need to be efficient, motivated, and recognized as an asset to their company.
From small businesses to major Fortune 500 companies, there is always one thing that has remained consistant. Happy employees who feel appreciated and respected, and who are compensated well stay with their employer and contribute greatly to a company's success. When the economy does start to recover and shows positive signs of stability, and companies start hiring again, it will be interesting to see which ones will be offering the best benefits. Employee loyalty to a company is very high at the present moment, but wether it remains high when more job opportunites open up, is the question companies should be asking themselves.