Xerox offers a wealth of information for small business, in its Small Business Resource Center. One of those is tips to help any small business boost morale, which, in turn boosts sales.

Think of morale like a checking account. Every day there numerous transactions. Some are deposits and some are withdrawals. At the end of the day, the month, the year; is the account growing or is it overdrawn? Healthy morale is the result of a rewarding work experience. A place where employees feel respected, valued and appreciated. A place where an individual feels that their contribution matters.

1. Do little things make a difference? Yes and no. Morale is the underlying way someone feels. Transient rewards such as birthday celebrations, tchotchkes and events are viewed through the lens of the individual’s current state of morale. They’re short term considerations that either complement or contrast with the way an employee feels about where they work.

2. Attitude adjustment. Consider the value of morale. In terms of production, it affects quantity, quality, delivery and service; and the resulting company reputation. In terms of operations it affects productivity, turnover and absenteeism. The impact of morale is too important to be addressed solely with low-cost tactics. It requires a strategic plan and leadership’s support.

3. Listen for understanding. When you listen for understanding you show that you respect, value and appreciate what the person speaking has to say. And they’ll be more open to focus on your response after they feel they’ve been heard and understood.

4. Rote or real? Take note of how “thank you” sounds when it’s simply a polite

acknowledgement or when it’s heartfelt. Sincere appreciation is confident, enthusiastic and most meaningful when it’s specific.

5. Communicate. Information can be thought of as a form of currency. When the wealth is shared it creates a sense of connection, respect and trust. But when it’s withheld or delayed it can have the opposite effect.