3 Essential Ways Of Showing Your Employees You Care

Julie Starr • March 2, 2021



It’s become increasingly clear in recent years that for many Americans – and for people across the world – the question of work-life balance has tilted a long way towards the former. Long hours, long commutes, and short weekends, along with the intrusion of technology into more corners of our lives, mean that even the most benign of jobs can become stressful when you’re “on call”, and it can affect well-being and eventually work performance.

As an employer , it is tricky to get the balance right. You yourself have duties that you need to discharge, and it is essential that you can rely on those who you manage to discharge theirs. For many people, the only reasonable approach would be to “crack the whip” a little and become a disciplinarian – but this has a tendency to achieve the opposite result from that which you’d appreciate. Below, we look at a few ways you can do the opposite – gaining the commitment of your employees while showing you care about their well-being.

Be open to different ideas about working patterns

If you had no prior knowledge on the matter, and someone suggested to you that changing a five-day working week down to four days would be a good idea, you might reasonably smirk. Losing a whole day of productivity would surely be ruinous? Well, studies suggest that in some cases it can actually boost productivity to change to a four-day week. A more rested, less drained workforce with a more focused working plan can get more done, if it’s what they want. Be prepared to listen to and, if possible, accommodate different rota plans; they can work wonders for employee motivation.

In addition, you can also be more open-minded about daily operations by encouraging the use of technology. For example, utilizing workforce automation software will not only free up more time for your employees but also eliminate many unnecessary mistakes, ensuring everyone can get along with their work and be as productive as possible. This software is only the tip of the iceberg regarding how you can make life easier for your employees with technology, and it will greatly benefit your business as well!

Go for the carrot more than the stick

There is a widespread impression that the best rulers have all ruled by fear and that if you want results, you’d do well to model yourself on them. Other minds argue that while this approach may work when you’re trying to build a military empire that stretches from Greece to Asia , it is less clear how well-suited it is to managing a team of sales professionals. If you incentivize your employees with free food and gifted holidays from the likes of MTI Events , they’ll be inclined to work harder and be grateful. That’s much better than them being terrified of making a mistake. Also, consider incentivizing with sustainable work opportunities like a “ green team.” 

Don’t try to be their friend; be their coach

While the first two ideas here have been about being generous and kind to employees, the final point is important from a point of view of hierarchy. As a boss, your job is not to be the friend of your employees. Let’s be clear, this doesn’t mean you can’t be friend ly . You can talk about sports with them, or be a listening ear if they have problems at home. But you are paid to improve their work outcomes, not their life. If you do your part, you’ll make their life better in an important area anyway. Be a coach to them, find their motivations, and work on those. Friendship may arise as a side benefit of this, but it isn’t the priority.

If you care about your employees, the best way of showing this is by making it easier for them to do their jobs well. Interpersonal relationships can grow in time, but being a caring boss is more important than being a fun friend.

A Greener Supply Chain with Micro Fulfillment

By Julie Starr • May 23, 2025
A sustainable supply chain is made possible with some major shifts and minor changes that you may not consider at first. One of these is micro fulfillment, where strategically placed warehouses provide streamlined services to a smaller area. So, what are some of the benefits of changing your logistics? From consolidated deliveries to minimal eco-impact, here are a few. Closer Customer Proximity There are a few ways that micro fulfillment centers are revolutionizing the courier industry. Reduced emissions, local sourcing, and support for urban stability are just three of the many examples. Compact logistics are quickly becoming a solution for businesses that want to make a difference, and through small warehouse space for rent , as and when needed, environmental footprints are diminishing as companies deliver services and goods to a smaller customer area. Consolidated Delivery Options Efficiency is everything in business, but it is even more critical when a company is looking to reduce the environmental impact of its operations. Through a micro-fulfillment system, a business is able to reduce the overall number of trips that a courier has to make. With consolidated deliveries concentrated in a smaller geographic area, there are many more options available that contribute to a lower impact, including efficient use of fuel for lower emissions. A Greener Supply Chain with Route Efficiency A company can make many changes when becoming the green link in the supply chain for a healthier logistical operation. However, an average home delivery round for a standard courier service is 50 miles, with 0.42 miles between each drop-off, producing 181g of carbon each. Focusing on a smaller area through micro fulfillment reduce the associated issues with couriers: Being closer to delivery routes reduces the need for extra shipping options. Electric delivery vehicles can be used as there is no need to recharge them. Knowledge of the area helps with routes as drivers can avoid congested areas. Lower Environmental Impact Of course, all efforts to go green and become more sustainable through logistics are to reduce the environmental impact that a business has on the area. Micro fulfillment contributes to this in a way that a wider operation cannot. Shorter routes and enhanced inventory management actively reduce waste. There is also much less energy used, as micro fulfillment centers are designed to be energy-efficient, and EVs and less transport contribute to emission reduction. Enhanced Socioeconomic Benefits There is also a social and economic impact of a business. An enhanced and more sustainable business using local micro fulfillment centers instantly creates more jobs, helping to prop up the local economy. Of course, the efficiency of this type of logistical operation also results in happier customers, increasing the chance of repeat business. From a business perspective, you demonstrate a commitment to ongoing sustainability , appealing to eco-conscious customers. Summary Being closer to customers for delivery helps create a greener supply chain when used with micro fulfillment centers. Local couriers and employees also know the area and can avoid congested areas for streamlined operations. However, there are also social and economic benefits such as job creation, improved customer experiences, and enhanced brand reputation.

Sustainability in Ecommerce: 3 Ways to Make Progress Where It Matters

By Julie Starr • May 21, 2025
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it's essential. That’s true across every industry, and ecommerce is no exception. But let’s be honest: building a more sustainable ecommerce business isn’t always straightforward. From packaging to supply chains to last-mile delivery, the challenges are real—and often feel like they’re outside your control. But here’s the good news: sustainable ecommerce is absolutely possible. And it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Small, strategic shifts can make a meaningful difference—not just for the planet, but for your customers and your brand’s longevity. Here are three actionable ways you can move the needle toward a more environmentally responsible ecommerce business. Choose Sustainable Packaging That Works for People and Planet Packaging is often one of the most visible and wasteful—aspects of ecommerce. From oversized boxes to plastic fillers, the impact adds up fast. But it doesn’t have to. Thoughtful, sustainable packaging design can dramatically reduce your environmental footprint. Start by right-sizing your shipments to reduce excess material and emissions. Opt for recycled, recyclable, or compostable materials that align with circular economy principles. Better yet, one option is to design custom boxes with sustainable materials, for example. These custom packaging solutions eliminate unnecessary layers while enhancing your brand’s presentation. These aren’t just more sustainable choices, they’re smarter ones. Today’s customers care about where materials come from, and where they end up. Your packaging can reflect your commitment to both. Partner with Purpose: Choose Sustainable Suppliers Your supply chain is an extension of your brand and one of the most powerful levers you have to reduce your environmental impact. You could end up using more than a few suppliers when you’re running an ecommerce company . It’s always worth making sure these are as sustainable as possible . While you may not control every aspect of your suppliers’ operations, you do control who you choose to work with. Prioritize suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. Look for transparency in sourcing, third-party certifications, and a clear track record of environmental and ethical practices. Ask the right questions: Are their materials responsibly sourced? Do they minimize waste and emissions? How do they treat their workforce? Choosing partners who align with your values not only improves the sustainability of your products—it strengthens your brand’s integrity and resilience. When your supply chain reflects your mission, it creates trust and long-term value across your business. Lead with Impact: Promote Environmental Awareness Sustainability doesn’t stop at your supply chain. As an ecommerce business, you have a unique platform to elevate environmental causes and inspire meaningful change within and beyond your operations. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of highlighting and supporting various sustainable initiatives and causes around the world. One powerful way to do this is by supporting organizations and initiatives that align with your values. Whether it’s donating a portion of your profits, partnering with mission-driven nonprofits, or amplifying important causes across your website and social channels, your advocacy matters. By shining a light on solutions and inviting your customers to participate, you strengthen your brand’s purpose and build a community rooted in shared responsibility. This isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for business. Sustainable ecommerce is entirely possible. With the right mindset and a few strategic shifts, your business can lead with integrity, reduce its footprint, and become part of a much-needed transformation in the digital economy.