The ways to a reward for employees are based in creativity

A big fat wad of cash would be nice. A new car would suffice. Employers know the importance of rewarding valued employees but when it comes to the how and the how much, questions arise as to what is practical and appropriate. There are many ways to reward employees but some forethought is in order to ensure an optimal outcome.

Good job. Well done. The words are craved by everyone?even those who won?t admit it. It?s natural to hope for recognition when the work one does?no matter its nature?is indicative of excellence that extends well beyond what is sufficient to complete the job. Success is measured in many ways?quotas met, cars sold, lives saved. But oftentimes, an employer is at a loss for ideas about ways to reward employees.

Use creative thinking to choose a reward

Presentations of practical items are good ways to reward employees. Examples are gift cards to restaurants or department stores. However, there?s something to be said for an incentive such as an attractive certificate of appreciation. Framed employee awards and certificates permit the glow to linger?on the employee?s office wall. A framed certificate always is on view when clients visit or when potential deal-makers sit down there for a meeting. Their comments on the award enable the recipient to elaborate?and accrue heightened prestige?without appearing boastful.

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Is the recipient athletic or artistic?

An employer also might think about the hobbies and interests of the recipient. Is that person a sports lover or a music lover? Consider concert tickets or tickets to the next big game. Does the person love carving wooden duck decoys? Think out of the box when conjuring up ways to reward valued employees Do you dare go as far as giving that person woodworking tools?or a fine slab of rare wood?

What is too much? What is too personal? What will backfire and ignite greed and jealousy among the other staff members? In contrast, what will inspire the rest of the crew to strive for similar excellence? Nobody likes a goody goodie. But a surprise visit from a boss bearing a mysterious gift always is an unexpected honor for the recipient who has earned a minute in the spotlight.

What kind of rewards keep on giving?

A valued employee who receives recognition in the form of bonus cash, merchandise, certificates?or any other form of spontaneous remuneration?is an employee who likely will try to continue to meet a higher set of standards. When it comes to ways to reward employees, think long term. The employee of the month wants that title, every month. Monthly reminders might encourage steadily escalating performance.

There are numerous delivery plans and memberships that will bring reoccurring recognition to valued employees. Is the employee partial to flowers? How about setting up automatic monthly delivery of a seasonal bouquet? Does the person faithfully prepare healthy foods? Think up something unusual that will be a monthly reminder of a job well done? delivery of gift baskets from a fruit club, wine club, chocolate specialty store or even an avocado-of-the-month club. Creative thinking keeps employees on their toes?and on the ball.

What about corporate rewards or cash incentives?

There once was a publishing firm in Philadelphia whose head honcho was known for occasionally calling into his office for special recognition one or another of his employees. The suspense was intense when he beckoned. Employees never knew why they were being summoned. Maybe he had a question for them?or a pink slip.

He believed that ways to reward employees should reflect the personal touch. One of his favorite gifts was an updated supply of custom business cards?cards with gold accents added or the employee?s photo inserted. Sometimes, the surprise would be a fine leather office accessories or a laptop carrying case embossed with the company logo.

In many instances, however, he would open his desk drawer, count out some cash and hand it over to the wide-eyed worker. His comments always drew the same conclusion: the company made extra profits and now you are making extra money. The ploy kept an edge of excitement alive in the office. When would this happen again?and to whom?

Do charts and graphs play a part in employee rewards?

Many strategies exist that culminate in creative ways to reward employees. Contests and goals can be valuable tools in keeping employees exhilarated. Chances are they will do exceptional work on an ever-accelerating basis. Charts reflecting sales growth or the acquisition of new clients are a visual aid. Graphs displaying wins and losses make it easy for everyone to keep their focus. They?ll focus on performance?and on the boss?s office door.