Count a rise in employee theft as among the downsides to a bad economy.  Just when a franchise owner is having to deal with soaring costs and declines in revenue, reports indicate an increase in theft at businesses.

 

While customers are targeted for anti-theft efforts, it appears the bigger problem is coming from the folks that run the store.  Case and point, insurance companies have seen a spike in insurance claims, with internal theft from employees as the biggest exposure.

 

While there is no sure fire way to prevent internal theft, there are a few ways to help keep the situation under control.  First, there is adding cameras to the workplace.  Employees who know they are being monitored are not as likely to help themselves to company inventory. 

 

Another way is to make it clear to employees that violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.  So a guilty party will not only lose his job but will face certain fines and possible jail time as well.

 

The third way is for the business owner to do his best to make the employee feel appreciated.  Studies show that employees who feel satisfied with their jobs and appreciated by their employer are less likely to steal from their place of employment.