One thing to consider during this recession: keeping employees engaged so they don’t run for another company as soon as the economy rebounds.

“Once the economy turns around disgruntled employees will certainly begin to consider a job change,” said Lori Dernavich, a business advisor and owner of Lori Dernavich LLC. “The key to retaining star employees is to keep the lines of communication open with them to gain an understanding of what they’re going through and to show them that you acknowledge their hard work.”

Dernavich’s tips to keep employees engaged:
1. Share the company’s long- and short-term vision
2. Be truthful about how the economy is impacting the company
3. Seek input and opinions from employees and give them ownership over their work.
4. Make sure employees have the resources to get their jobs done.
5. Praise employees sincerely and when you need to give negative feedback, make it constructive.
6. Don’t assume you know the desired career path of your employees. Work with employees to devise a plan that encourages their development and is positive for the company.
7. Create rewards that mean something.
8. Encourage team interaction.
9. Provide opportunities to learn and grow.
10. Provide feedback and follow through on promises.