Whilst working in these tough economic times, it is easy to become deflated and discouraged. Your employees function with the looming fear that they may be the next to be given the old heave-ho.

It is easy to see why some employees fear that they are not working efficiently enough and may be surplus to requirements. This anxiety then escalates to further problems as thoughts of mortgage payments going into arrears surface and a downward spiral of worries start to take a hold.

Working under such pressure is bound to have a detrimental effect in an office environment as everyone is living on tenterhooks. Whilst it is vital to maintain professionalism at all times, psychologically it is hard to paint on a smile when you wonder if every day is leading to the last.

Morale is bound to be at an all time low for many employees which in turn, will put a strain on companies to run efficiently. Bosses are equally under a tremendous amount of stress as they face the dreaded task of having to fire employees who are actually very good but are just unaffordable. It is imperative that management is aware of the 'buzz' surrounding the office so as they can bring in measures to keep morale high. For example, staff may be up in arms at the sacking of Bill Jones? Or, are they worried about new changes which are going to take place within the company?

The fastest way to lift your spirits is to lift the spirit of your co-workers. There has never been a more important time to get to know your employees than now. Show them your caring side and really take time to get to know them. Find out about their hobbies, families, anything to show that you represent a company that cares about its employees. Nothing can reassure someone more than a mutually trustworthy relationship between management and staff. In turn, this rewards you a tremendous amount of respect and will pave the way for employees to address their concerns and worries so as you can put their minds at rest.

If employees have concerns about cutbacks or changes being made, allow them to express themselves. Take their grievances on board and make it clear that their opinions really matter.

Your staff will really appreciate being told of imminent changes. If they fear something is brewing behind their backs they will jump to all sorts of wild assumptions and productivity will decrease as they work in a world of uncertainty.

Communication is the most important tool that you can have at this moment in time, so make it your business to ensure that your colleagues are informed of any changes which will likely take place. At the same time, don't make the mistake of painting a rosy picture if everything in the garden isn't so rosy.

Being honest with people is something they will really appreciate. By making them aware of the company's current situation, they will feel part of a team and in many cases, will often come up with ideas and suggestions to prevent potential situations arising. Staff are equally keen to keep their jobs. As a result, many are passionate enough to fight tooth and nail to keep the company afloat.

Ask employees their views and opinions for possible solutions and ask which ones they think will work and which ones could do with some extra thought. Assure them that they will not be penalized for being honest. This way you can really form a consensus around their opinions and use this feedback to create harmony and camaraderie.

Don't just share the worries, share the successes too, even if they are only small ones. When large worries cloud a company, it is easy to overlook the small positive changes which take place.

Not only should you ensure that you share a close working relationship with your employees, you should also ensure that they work happily as a team. Create some tasks which will involve plenty of interaction. This helps to build bridges between people and creates a stronger, more united workforce where people get to know one another as individuals and not just as job titles. A team that is strong and motivated will stay that way because no-one will want to let the side down.

A celebratory cup of coffee or cake will be the perfect thank you gesture to compliment individuals who have achieved positive results. This raises morale and keeps motivation at its highest. It will also encourage other employees to perform their best.