I once had a conversation with a parking lot attendant for a large corporation. He had worked for the company in his current capacity for 37 years. I marveled at his steadfastness. The older gentleman smiled and responded, “Without me, this place would fold in a day!”

Loyalty has become a precious and rare commodity in the workplace. The idea of ‘ownership’ in reference to one’s job is no longer the norm but a mythical rendition of some vague song of the past; however, its relevance couldn’t be more necessary in today’s work environment. The benefits of employee loyalty are a crucial part of the success of your business.

Starting Loyalty at the Top

Basically, loyalty starts at the top. Remember that your workforce represents you and the manner in which your team is treated by you is reflected back to the customer. The adage “Attitude reflects leadership” displays loudly in the countenance of your staff. If you want loyalty, then you must demonstrate loyalty.

The Restaurant

As a restaurant owner I spend two to three days a week in my restaurant. I work a shift in each area of the restaurant. My manager knows that Monday morning after I have reviewed the reports I will ask her, “Where do you want me today?” From washing dishes to preparing food to cleaning the lobby, I cover it all working side by side with my team members not as a leader but as a part of the team. The advantages? I realize what is needed to make the ship operate more efficiently and smoothly. In such a role, I see first-hand how our team is being managed, what obstacles they incur each day, and the overall atmospheric pressure of the restaurant.

The Hospital

A hospital administrator noticed my leadership style and implemented it in his hospital. ½ day a week he works either delivering trays to the patients, registering the patients, janitorial duty, or in front giving help to whoever asks. His objective when he started was to learn how patients and visitors viewed the hospital; however, he has learned that by playing such a role, his staff’s work ethic has dramatically improved and the overall attitude of the hospital has changed.

The Bank

The president of the bank near our restaurant decided that he would join the teller line for a few hours per week - cashing checks, opening accounts, and depositing money. A customer was heard commenting, “If the President of the bank cares that much to take care of my needs, then I know my money is safe in this bank.” His jovial way with the customer is being used now by the tellers and since he started not one employee has resigned.

Your Business

As owners of business it is easy to reach a level of complacency in regard to the work that is being done in our businesses on a regular basis. We may overlook who is running the ship and how many hands are on deck; but when rough waters appear, suddenly it becomes very important who is at the helm. Storms are not the time to wonder if your team knows how to operate in rough waters.

For in the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “The true ship is in the ship builder.”

Nora C. Hatchett