How to Get Your Team Working Like a Well-Oiled Machine Showing your team they're valued-such as offering a comprehensive benefits package-goes a long way in making sure they're working at their finest.

Building a dream team to help run your business is a surefire way to be successful. But it's not just about finding the right talent, it's making sure you're fostering the best environment for employees so they can work to their fullest potential.

Based on data gathered by Aflac from thousands of employers and employees, here are key ways to ensure your team is optimally working to bring your business to the next level:

Always lead by example.

If you want team members to act and behave a certain way, you must display the gold standard of commitment and behavior. For example, if you want employees to get started on projects early, be willing to do the same so they can take their cues from you. By leading by example, you'll be exhibiting the quality that you expect from your employees while also signaling to them that you see yourselves as equals, which goes a long way in boosting morale.

That also means encouraging an environment of collaboration. Be open with your team and collaborate with them on decision-making and big projects. Encouraging employees to work well together always starts with your own example.

Show your team that you're taking care of them.

With employer-offered benefits options becoming a growing scarcity in the workplace, offering them to your team goes a long way in signaling you have their best interests in mind. Comprehensive benefits packages show you are thinking about your employees' wellbeing—both in and outside of the office.

Take, for example, the findings of Aflac's most recent workforce survey. According to the 2017 report, three quarters of surveyed individuals say that improving their benefits package would make them happier employees. What's more, how comprehensive a benefits package is plays a crucial role in employees level of job satisfaction, according to 60 percent of those surveyed.

Benefits also inspire employee retention. More than one out of every three people say that improving their benefits package is one way their employer can increase their workplace loyalty so they stay in their current jobs.

Be flexible to change.

In our fast-paced business world, rapid shifts in market needs and demands are inevitable. As your business evolves, you'll need to remain open to change. That means encouraging your team to keep their finger on the pulse of what's happening in the industry and to maintain a mentality of adaptability—adjusting offerings based on customer and industry needs.

In a recent survey, Aflac found that the number one benefit employees cited as their top perk in working for a small business was flexible scheduling. Meaning don't just ensure that your business stays flexible to changes in the marketplace – enable employees to maintain flexibility when it comes to setting their own work schedules.

Praise standout results.

Often, we're so busy with our head in the weeds, just trying to put out fires and get through short-term tasks, that we forget to stop and celebrate what we've accomplished. When it comes to morale building and keeping employees invested in your business' results, vocalizing your appreciation for their hard work will make a massive difference.

Nearly one in four surveyed employees say that their ability to see the fruits of their labor is a major benefit they associate with working for a small business. When a project goes well or a big sale comes through, don't forget to acknowledge your team and the hard work they put into contributing to the success of your business.

When your team is working like a well-oiled machine, your entire business will experience the positive results.

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