By acknowledging this, leaders should also recognize that unhappy employees simmering with discontent can not only impede your growth, they can threaten your very survival. Add in a competitive recruitment and hiring environment, and it becomes clear that supporting your staff and demonstrating that they’re valuable and appreciated is critical component of organizational success.

Compensating your staff appropriately is one way to keep employees from jumping ship, but maintaining job satisfaction over the long term takes more than just a financial solution. Studies have shown that employees who are more satisfied in their jobs are generally more productive and loyal to their employers. So, what can leaders do to keep employees happy, engaged and productive? Here’s a four suggestions:

1. Reinforce the importance of work-life balance

Happy employees have time for social interaction, both inside and outside the office. Empathetic employers understand that what’s happening in their employees lives at home can impacts their effectiveness at work. By demonstrating understanding and flexibility, organizations foster goodwill with their staff. Leadership should model the work-life balance, consider flexible work schedules and set expectations that “time off” is truly time off.

2. Empower them to make their own decisions

Delegating responsibilities without micromanaging is difficult for some leaders. However, employees who feel trusted and supported are more relaxed and confident in their performance. Set clear expectations and fair boundaries, then provide your team the trust and creative freedom to complete their work.

3. Keep them in the loop

Transparency is a critical factor in employee satisfaction. Being honest and candid with your team will make them more comfortable being honest with leadership. Employees who feel connected and well-informed may offer honest criticism, and leaders should receptive to their comments. By sharing what you’ve learned and a course of action with your team, they’ll see that their input is valued.

4. Offer training opportunities for career advancement

If you want to show employees they’re valued, offer them the tools to expand their skills. Training opportunities show your employees you’re willing to invest in them, and often the best employees are developed internally. Don’t think of the costs of trainings, classes and conferences as expenses, but as investments in the long-term success of your organization.