I couldn't agree more. If you look after your staff they will look after your customers. You can always feel a negative working environment as a customer and it's not pleasant.

We were having motivation issues as our staff said their work wasn't challenging enough so we decided to offer them training to make life a bit more exciting. We found an online training provider (http://www.quasaranytime.co.uk/) so our staff can choose if they want to do the training or not. Some of them like to have the option, but don't really bother, and others have really taken it on board and are really improving their skills. I think the important thing for us has been offering the staff the opportunity to boost their skills, even if they don't take advantage.

I completely agree with you also however feel that employee appreciation also is a huge benefactor to retention and growth.

Loyal, trusted, appreciated employees make harder workers and the stars that go above and beyond for a brand they are proud of.

Thanks Beth for taking the time to read the artilce! You are correct in stating that employee appreciation is a huge benefactor to retention and growth. Here's a link to my free online newsletter where I offer customer service tips and real life customer service experiences. http://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/email/newsletter/1411387680