Over the next few days I am going to point out some of the unique issues that employees of a small businesses often face. As with most things, just knowing what these issues are is beneficial. Acknowledging them and being open to doing what you can to resolve them will go a long way in keeping employees happy. Also, addressing these issues in an interview will help paint a realistic picture of the position and help candidates make an informed decision before the accept.
Lack of a peer group
There just isn’t anyone to cover your shift. Typically with small businesses there is no one else who is doing exactly what you are doing which makes it difficult to really develop a true peer group. Yes, small businesses tend to be very close knit, but that doesn’t happen over night and it is like a “family” not like friends. You just don’t build a professional network in the same way that you would in a larger company. So encourage your employees to get out and network. Even if business development isn’t part of their job description. It will still benefit your company and it will definitely benefit them.
