Earlier this month, research by consultancy firm Croner revealed that one third of employees feel more negative about their job prospects compared to last year. In addition, 46% had not received a salary increase in over a year and 41% don’t expect to receive one in 2010.

Following on from this, a separate report out this week from the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) reveals – surprisingly – that this lack of motivation may be down to management’s poor communication about the coming year. Only one quarter of SME staff surveyed said they have had their business’s 2010 goals and objectives communicated to them. Furthermore, one third are unsure what – if any – future vision their business has.

With staff feeling increasingly unmotivated, small business owners and bosses are encouraged to address this issue in the workplace and help encourage staff ahead of the new year. Some simple steps you can take include:

• Maintain open lines of communication with employees – be honest about the state of the business and provide staff with updates.

• Keep staff informed about the business’s objectives for the year ahead – discuss with employees the expectations for 2010 and what the business is aiming to achieve. Make an effort to highlight areas where staff can contribute.

• Set clear goals – employees will be more motivated if there are specific goals in mind that they can work towards.