Rule 23. Create a Good Atmosphere

Creating a good atmosphere isn’t only easy but also essential. If your staff are sullen and despondent and depressed and surly—it shows. It shows in their work, the way they handle customers and colleagues, the way they relate to each other, and most important the way they work with you and for you.

It takes nothing to say good morning politely and mean it. It isn’t a chore to make sure everyone has got coffee or tea for a meeting. It takes a second to ask, “How are you today?” The three rules for any workplace are