It’s no secret that one of the keys to running a successful business is recruiting and retaining stellar employees. So what can you do to keep your team happy and loyal? Simple: empower them. Studies have shown that when employees feel empowered, they have a much stronger commitment to the company they work for because they feel like they are truly part of it, and not just a number. That said, here are 4 simple ways you can give your team the autonomy they deserve.

Include them in decision making. Planning on changing a policy or procedure? Why not ask your employees to weigh in? After all, the decisions you’re making will likely impact them directly, right? Who better to ask for input than the very people who are doing the work, day in and day out? By including your team in your decision making activities, you will show them that you value their opinion and they will repay you with loyalty and respect.

Allow more flexibility. Break away from that 40-hour-a-week mentality and embrace a more flexible idea of working. With today’s technology, businesses can be run successfully from anywhere – whether it’s an office, a home or even on the road, in your car. Employ cloud technology such as web-based software and a virtual phone system to give your team the freedom and flexibility to do their work wherever they happen to be and show them that you trust them to get the job done.

Establish solid teams. Create hard-working teams that are designed to nurture and highlight each person’s strengths, and clearly communicating that each team member plays an integral role in the overall success of the business as a whole. This places a level of importance on every employee and shows them that even though they are a part of a group, they are individually important to you.

Provide opportunities for choice. Even choices that seems insignificant, such as where to hold a business meeting or where to order lunch from, can have a strong positive impact on your employees. Wherever possible, offer as many choices as you can and gather opinion from your workforce. More importantly, honor their requests and suggestions fairly and thank them for their valuable feedback.

Want a loyal, stable team? Empower them by putting these simple tips into action for your business. You’ll be amazed by the results.