Laughter and smiles are more than just contagious - they spread a positive image, which can lead to success. Here are a few quick tips to keep your staff motivated ... and smiling.

• Provide incentives for targets that are achieved - but don't make it a contest. Set a target (for example, sell appetizers to 75% of all tables) then offer a reward to EVERYONE who reaches that target. Make the targets achievable and easily measured.


• Customers often share good experiences with one member of your staff - but take it one step further and share them with everyone from the back to the front of the house. Post comments and letters and allow your staff to accumulate points for every good review and let them cash them in for prizes.


• Take a moment to recognize AND reward a job done well. Start a "Best Employee of the Month" program and give out gift certificates.


• Make sure your staff has ALL the tools they need to do their job properly. This includes training and product knowledge, as well as equipment and supplies.


• Look to yourself. Do you convey a positive, warm and friendly image? Your staff takes their lead from you. When you smile, people smile back.