Many small business owners overlook the importance of having an employee handbook, which can serve as an essential management tool for effective leadership.

Investing in thoughtful, high-quality training is one of the most effective ways to support your greatest asset — your people. When designed with care, professional development efforts help ensure your team is equipped to meet your organization’s unique goals and move forward with confidence.

In my work as an HR and business management coach, I get to be the person employees open up to when they’re not sure how to approach their boss directly. And let me tell you—your team has some heartfelt, insightful things they wish they could say out loud. The good news? They’ve been honest with me, and I’m here to pass that honesty along to you.

This isn’t about complaints or finger-pointing. It’s about creating stronger connections and better communication between you and your team. Because when employees feel seen, heard, and supported—they do their best work.

So, what do they really want you to know? Let’s dive in.