Fair Treatment Goes a Long Way

Managers can be highly critical, quick to spot flaws and point them out, and they seem to focus on what's not working. This can make staffers feel worthless, as if nothing they do is right, that they can never please their bosses. And hence, staffers' morale suffers, as does their productivity.

Solution: Focus on what's working and build from there. As for what's not working, assume that only employees hold the answers. Brainstorming with all involved in a task or project shows respect to employees who very often have a better grip on the situation than you, the manager, do. Moreover, staffers can produce innovative ideas and solutions. You also need to support your staff with praise and words of encouragement. Accomplishments should be rewarded.