[clivehawkins]

Thanks guys.

The communication aspect is vital, I agree. I'd rather know if there's a problem than someone just bottle it up and then leave out of the blue. I know of teachers here who are deeply unhappy and moan non-stop to their colleagues but the director is blissfully unaware of the problem. The fault lies with both parties.

I'm already paying more than the going rate so hopefully that will inspire some loyalty and feeling of 'worth'.

We'll see how it goes!

[mesmark]

Congrats! That's great.

I'm actually in the same boat. I'm opening a new school in a nearby town and have contracted a woman to work with me. It's not easy, but hey you've got to give it a shot. Fliers have already gone out and lessons begin in April.

Quote clivehawkins

I'm already paying more than the going rate so hopefully that will inspire some loyalty and feeling of 'worth'.

I hate to burst that bubble, but it's been my managerial experience that higher pay means nothing. You should pay people an appropriate amount for their experience level and that's it. Higher pay won't make people more loyal.

I worked just as hard and was just as loyal for $4.25/hour as I did/was when I made $6.25, $7.50, $20 and so on. It's in the person, not the pay check.

Just make sure you pay the person an appropriate amount so they don't leave you.

The best way to show appreciation is bonuses that aren't on the contract. It's great to have a boss say they appreciate your efforts and give you a bonus that you weren't expecting.