Coffee shop owners have been advised they can
improve employee engagement by allowing staff to give free products
to regular customers.
The possibility was highlighted in an article
for Human Resource Executive Online, which noted those operating
coffee machines may feel happier if they
have some autonomy.
And it was suggested that granting such
independence can also improve customer relations, as complaints and
problems can be dealt with quickly and easily - without the
involvement of managers.
While some firms may be discouraged by the
financial implications, Bruce Bolger of the Enterprise Engagement
Alliance highlighted the importance of employees to a brand.
"It's the way customers engage with the human
beings of a company that drives loyalty," he was quoted as
saying.
Last month, chairman of the Recruitment
Society Steve Huxham advised bosses one way to improve staff
retention levels is to keep employees interested by giving them
opportunities to do different things within their role.