11. Have an Empty Supply Cabinet

Having an empty supply cabinet sends all the wrong signals.  In addition to wasting time looking for the supplies they need to complete their work, they are left to wonder if incompetence, frugality or financial difficulties are to blame

10. Slow Computers and Out of Date Software

Your employees want to be working with reasonably current technology.  If you don't provide it for them your competitors will.  All of your computers and software should be on a 3-year replacement cycle.  No it is not acceptable to push off the old clunkers to your administrative staff. 

9. Share Information on a "Need to Know Basis"

Employees want to know why something needs to be done.  By providing a context to the tasks we are asking them to perform, we are preparing them for greater responsibility.

8. Don't Listen -- Just Assume they are Chronic Complainers

 Those of us in management positions deal with problems all day long -- this is what we are paid for.  It is easy to fall into the trap of believing that some employees are chronic complainers.  (This is probably because some of them are.)  Take the time to evaluate their complaint and see what can reasonably be done to correct the problem.  See #2 below

7. Click Away on Your Blackberry -- After all you are the Boss

When your employee, co-workers or anyone else is speaking do not go to your Blackberry - it is rude.  Live in the moment.  Check your e-mail later.

6. Think of them as the Enemy

I am astounded on how some employers/bosses talk to or treat their employees.  We are all working towards the same goal - they are not the enemy.  I am not saying you should let them take advantage of you, but treat them with some respect and get some better results.

5. Create a Moving Target of Expectations

Employees respond to certainty -- not uncertainty.  Be consistent in your performance expectations.  When your expectations do change, be sure to let your employees know in advance -- not after the fact.

4. Have a One Sided Employee Manual

The employee manual should be as a comprehensive and fair document -- and it should be presented as such.  The tone of the manual is as important as the content.

3. Uncomfortable Furniture

If you want your employees to work long hours when needed and go the extra mile to meet client deadlines -- you need to provide comfortable chairs and work stations.  No one feels like working long hours when his or her muscles ache from ergonomically challenged furniture

2. No Heat

It's hard to believe that an A/E firm would not see the necessity of providing adequate heat for their employees, but I come across it all the time.  You may be a fresh air freak or enjoy the crisp feeling of a 55-degree office -- but trust me when I tell you that you employees do not. 

1. Put-Off Reviews

Yes, a year goes by very quickly when you are responsible for conducting reviews and giving raises.  However, when you are the one waiting for the review or raise, a year seems like an eternity.  Employees view any delay as an insult and are likely to seek employment elsewhere.