Managing a Large Staff Effectively

Match people with projects. With a large staff, it’s easy (even tempting) to assume people are doing their appropriate tasks adequately. Let’s face it: it’s not easy to keep up with what’s on everyone’s plate. One way to avoid losing track is to make sure you match people with the right projects. If someone is mismatched with a particular task, that could slow down the whole company. Effectively aligning your resources with the appropriate function adds to the company’s efficiency, which ultimately affects the bottom line. Division of labor becomes critical as your staff grows.

 

Commit to training and development. Identifying appropriate educational opportunities, and making them available, lets your people know that you’re interested and invested in their professional development. Providing them with the tools to do their best work will keep them motivated and increase their loyalty to the company.

Create a collaborative and friendly culture. It’s just a fact of life: the more people you have, the greater the chance of conflict. Create a workplace characterized by mutual trust and respect. High ethical standards should be the norm, and those who cannot abide by company rules should face the consequences. Be consistent and firm but respectful, too. Communicate what's expected, and demonstrate your commitment to that standard.

Simulate a small staff environment when you can. Occasionally, you might hear someone grumbling about the size of your staff: “I don’t know anyone anymore” or “Who’s that?” You can’t stop growth (well, you can, but you probably don’t want to), but you can simulate a “small office” ambiance. Get everyone together for a spontaneous ice cream social, distribute an e-mail newsletter announcing all new hires (including some background on them), and make sure you know everyone by name.