Next, check out the “departments” listings and do the same thing. Just scan and circle the stories that need to be read. You may well want to read the entire magazine from cover to cover, but save that activity for rainout days. Right now, you want the meat.
Once the selections have been made, it’s time to make assignments and spread out the reading among your staff. Even if that comes down to just you and your spouse, divide up your reading material based on who has the expertise in different subjects.
This practice makes for good employee relations. It will get your employees in the habit of reading about business issues.
Ask for a book report on the article, or similar feedback, at staff meetings. If an article is a good one, make copies of it so that it can be distributed. During feedback time, just two or three minutes of questions and answers about an article can really bring out some of the hidden talents of your employees while spreading good information for your business.
On topics that provoke an especially strong or enthusiastic response, you might also want to consider a letter to the editor. I always like to read comments from an association member or business owner I know.
This is an excellent way to cover a lot of material, to keep current on issues and to generate contributions from your employees. It’s a great learning exercise and it’s a good business practice.
Mike Weiss is chairman of the NAHB Remodelors™ Council.
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