4 Ways to Reward Your Employees Without Spending A Dime
While additional payments/bonuses are always a good reward, great bosses and leaders recognise that money alone is not a motivator. Rather, employees are motivated by intrinsic factors such as recognition for their hard work, trust and respect, flexible work schedules and opportunities for growth and advancement. Be sure to show your employees that they are appreciated and valued!
Below are four simple, yet effective, ways to reward your employees this year without spending a dime.
1.) Offer Flexible Work Schedules
Offering flexible work schedules allow employees the opportunity to create and maintain a healthy work-life balance. This can be in the form of flexible working hours which allow employees to choose their own working hours. Another great option is to allow employees to work from home at least once or twice a week. This is beneficial for employees as it allows them to meet family and personal obligations, as well as provides the chance to work during a time period and in an environment that better caters to their needs and productivity. The gift of flexibility is one of the best rewards and ways of showing trust and appreciation to your team.
2.) Provide Opportunities for Learning, Training and Growth
When employees are faced with performing the same tasks daily, it is not unusual for them to become stagnant or get stuck in a rut. This may lead to lack of creativity, job dissatisfaction or de-motivation which in turn can result in lowered productivity and higher employee turnover. Show employees that you care about their continued learning, skills development and career growth by rewarding them with training and learning opportunities (on and off the job) – and the chance to work on/lead special projects (in their areas of interest). This is an effective and simple way to improve work output and skillsets while keeping employees keen and motivated.
3.) Be Mindful of Their Physical And Mental Health
The physical and mental health of your employees should be a top priority for every business. Research has shown that stress and depression are two of the major causes of workplace absenteeism. To combat this, offer employees mental health days. This is a period of discretionary leave which allows employees the opportunity to look after their health and wellbeing. Make employees feel comfortable to share when they may be feeling down, depleted or exhausted. One of the biggest steps an employer can take is to change the culture around mental health conditions, as stigma is a primary reason people don’t seek help or treatment. Remember, they are not machines and may need time to replenish and refresh. Be flexible and provide support and opportunities for them to do so when the need arises.
Another great option is to provide a ‘Recharge Room’ for your employees. These are designated rooms/spaces within the workplace where an employee can take a break to relax, stretch, meditate or nap. Yes, nap! The idea behind the ‘Recharge Rooms’ is to allow the brain and body an opportunity to reset, renew and recharge providing employees with a refresher throughout the day that helps to keep them energized and focused. The benefits of napping include regained concentration, productivity boosts and decreased anxiety and depression. At the end of the day, a healthy employee is a productive employee!
4.) Share Sincere Praise and Show Gratitude
Want to reward your employees? Simply say ‘Thank You’. This is one of the simplest, yet most profound, ways to recognize your employees and their outstanding work and commitment. There are many ways to show gratitude to your employees. Publicly acknowledge their accomplishments within the office or via your department’s social media pages. Praise them often and praise them quickly/in the moment. Send them a personal thank you note or a thoughtful email displaying gratitude. The list is endless. Remember, there is no such thing as giving ‘too much’ praise and recognition to your employees. Your employees are the most important assets within your organisation. Take the time to reward your employees, show your appreciation and let them know that they are valued!
Written By Sherise Brooks
