“The ability to motivate employees is one of the greatest skills an entrepreneur can possess. Two years ago, I realized I didn’t have this skill. So I hired a CEO who did.  With his help and the help of the great team leaders he put in place, Josh not only rebuilt the culture, but also created a passionate, hard-working team that is as committed to growing and improving the company as I am” -- Ilya Pozin, President of Ciplex.  Article written for inc.com

Here are nine things I learned from him:

·         Be generous with praise

·         Get rid of the managers

·         Make your ideas theirs

·         Never criticize or correct

·         Make everyone a leader

·         Take an employee to lunch once a week

·         Give recognition and small rewards

·         Throw company parties

·         Share the rewards - and the pain

I truly believe in ‘people before product’ and by motivating your team in ways other than money, you’ll still get great results.  Positive reinforcement is so important, and by taking the time to implement some, if not all of these nine things listed above; your employees will feel more appreciated and will inevitably work harder, better and happier!