Just reading the headlines these days is enough to zap anyone’s morale. It’s more important than ever before for small businesses to keep employees happy and active. According to Sarah Caron of HR World, there are four practices that consistently help boost morale:

• Increase your transparency. Employees always want to know about their company’s financial health, but a recession heightens these needs. Increase the frequency, detail and amount of information you provide about your company and industry.
• Revive your recognition program. Anything from a personal thank you to a small monetary reward can work wonders.
• Find alternatives to lay-offs. Opt for salary freezes, shorter workweeks or reduced benefit packages. When the economy turns around, you’ll be in a better position if you have the right people in place.
• Involve your employees. Ask for suggestions to help cut costs—often the best ideas come from employees, and the teamwork will reinforce their place in the company.