Top HR and Company Culture News of the Week – August 18, 2014

Looking for proof that happier workers are more productive? Well, according to Inc.com's Ariana Ayu, happy employees work better with others, fix problems instead of complaining about them, have more energy, are more creative, optimistic, motivated, and healthy (i.e., they take fewer sick days), worry less about making mistakes (and then actually make fewer mistakes), learn faster, and make better decisions. Still not convinced? Read her post, "Why Happiness Matters."

It’s something all managers want to do, yet, as every manager knows, it’s easier said than done: bringing out the best in your people. But how often do you get frustrated with employers who fail to come through? Forbes writer Victor Lipman believes that the most effective management is often the simplest and most basic. Check out his 5 simple ways to bring out the best in your people.

What kind of difference would it make for your company to get every one of your employees excited about solving problems, making recommendations, expressing their new ideas, and taking care of your customers? In his latest post, Inc.com author Peter Economy shows you how communicating openly with your employees, recognizing them for good work, and giving them room to grow will vastly improve their engagement and your company's bottom line.