But whatever your company's size, get to know your workers' strengths and weaknesses and, just as important, their hopes and dreams. Of course, these are not questions you just walk up to an employee and ask on the first day of work. You need to have a genuine interest in your employees. So you'll have to earn his trust and belief that you are really concerned. You can create a shop atmosphere, no matter how big or small your business is, that encourages and rewards employee input.
Suggestion boxes are one approach.
But consider suggestion sessions as well or, better yet, instead. Suggestion sessions are just regular meetings that are held specifically to enhance the relationship between employees and management. Ultimately, the strength of that relationship has a huge impact on your business' profitability. Set aside some time on a regular basis, every four to six weeks, to sit down with everyone in the shop as a group and talk. If people have ideas, they should be expressed.