Breakfast meetings may be popular with executives but sitting down with your employees over a bowl cereal can also be a great way to boost staff motivation, a successful entrepreneur has claimed.

Jennie Johnson, founder of childcare firm Kids Allowed, revealed that she meets with six of her employees every month, which means by the end of the year she has had breakfast with her entire workforce.

The technique, she said during a speech at the recent Growing Your Own Business Exhibition in Manchester, is an effective way to hear the wants and needs of employees and ensure they are embracing the company vision.

‘Breakfast With Jennie’ is just one of the staff initiatives put in place by the founder of a company which has grown into a £3 million turnover, 130 employee operation in just five years.

Staff members are encourage to nominate colleagues for monthly gift voucher bonuses and company management also pick an employee of the month – both announced in the company newsletter.

“We are constantly looking to upskill and provide staff with improved tools for knowledge and better physical resources,” she said. “We provide leadership training for managers which is very much focused on coaching rather than telling. That way you encourage much deeper learning.”

Johnson also disclosed that all members of staff have her business card with her direct landline and mobile telephone numbers and the workforce is permitted to buy new equipment if required without asking permission.

“I tell all staff if you haven’t got sufficient resources to do your job, go out and buy them. If you keep the receipt, we’ll pay you back,” she said.

And Johnson’s one top tip for business success?

“Do something every day that gets your business out there. Make a phone call, speak at events. You must maintain your reputation as it’s very easily lost.”