While overt tactics to deter theft help prevent losses, they also convey very clearly to employees that they are not trusted. Work Together with Employees Workers will be less likely to steal if you create an environment in which they think there is a good chance of being caught. When management and labor work together to solve the problem, an additional result can be improved relations and higher morale. To make a security program such as this effective, it is crucial employees know they can turn over incriminating information on anyone in the firm without fearing job loss or other repercussions. Stress that management and supervisors are not above suspicion and that employee complaints will be taken seriously.
Some programs feature special phone numbers or other means for workers to leave anonymous tips.
Others offer rewards for informants while still guaranteeing their anonymity. A more positive approach may be to institute a profit-sharing plan which fosters loyalty, encourages personnel to monitor one another, and brings each employeeOs interests closer in line with those of the company. The most troubling cases of employee theft occur when workers are in desperate financial straits. Common problems, such as heavy medical expenses, can temporarily put people into situations where stealing seems necessary for survival. Let employees know in advance that they can come to management for assistance rather than resorting to theft.