DISC is a popular assessment tool that does an incredible job in explaining, in plain English, what might motivate your high performers. Assessments are not answer for deciphering primary motivators of your high performers but they are definitely a great way to help you feed fire.

Coach Them On What’s Next

Stars thrive on executing results. Seldom do they sit down and reflect on things that “just happen.” Their visionary thinking is important for your company, but their reflection is equally important. Be patient, encourage self-reflection, show them that you care for them and you want to know how they feel. Encourage genuine dialogues, connect with them on a personal level, and let them rely on you for your partnership.

Encourage Input and Participation

Star performers are not likely to sit quietly and do as they’re told. They want to be in limelight. They want to make decisions. They want to shine. Be sure to create an environment where they can do just that.

Ask for opinions, investigate options they offer, and involve them in as many areas as you can. Then… take time to recognize them. After all, what good does it do for a star to shine all by itself? Stars love to shine where all can see!

There is no doubt… maintaining passion of your high performers is a very active game. There is no one solution that will help you do this. It bears a lot of responsibility, a lot of active gestures and a lot of passion on your own. You must believe in them, you must be proud that they are working for you, you must give them due recognition, and you must let them know that you are sure you’ve made right decision in bringing them on board.

Fred is right on money. Your products and services may be main reason a customer comes to you (I wanted a chalupa). However, if they get unsatisfactory service, they won't stay long at all. (I won't visit a few Taco Bell locations in my city even though food is all same.) There is simply too much competition out there for a customer to tolerate impatience, rudeness or unprofessional behavior.

Consider fact that your customers pay your salary. They have money you are seeking to earn. They also have a choice - whether to stay with you or move to your competition who offers same, or a similar, product as your business.

Wise business people keep their customers in mind at every turn. Making people feel welcome and appreciated is a sure fire way to increase customer retention. In fact, in results of 1996 White House Office of Consumer Affairs Survey, a lack of attention and caring was #1 reason people stated for leaving a company.

Do your people matter? Absolutely! In fact, you and your employees are reason you have customers. You and your employees are reason your customers come back. It all boils down to people.

Keep that fact in mind throughout all your marketing, sales and support efforts and you'll see dramatic improvements in your repeat sales - and ultimately your profits!

Diane C. Hughes * ProBizTips.com