For some companies, when it comes to motivational rewards, it’s the quirkier the better. Free Botox anyone? How about a Naked Friday? Perhaps not. But as 2015 enters it’s final furlong, a well-placed staff reward could give the team just the momentum they need to cross the finish line with aplomb. And the good news is they don’t have to cost an arm and a leg (or your modesty) because for many employees, it really is the thought that counts.
Here are 5 great ways to keep staff motivated this November:
- Praise Indeed: Use praise wherever possible – it’s proven to be motivating. As well as making staff feel more appreciated, it improves their confidence and self esteem too.
- Say Thank You: The most important two words in the workplace. Better still, write handwritten thank you cards to staff, each with a personalised message expressing gratitude for their support on a particular project or issue over the past year. Such a simple gesture, but one that will go a long way to making them feel really valued.
- A Little Gift Goes A Long Way: There’s nothing like an unexpected gift to make someone feel special. Many SMEs use Hudddlebuy to give their staff access to the kind of perks usually only open to the big corporates. From money off the weekly shop to discounted meals out and childcare vouchers – the deals on offer can make a real difference to the cash in their back pocket.
- Cheer Up: ‘Tis (almost) the season to be jolly and nobody likes a Scrooge. Lead by example and spread the festive cheer. And if they want to put the decorations up early bless them, let them.
- Don’t Ditch the Christmas Party: Not only are they almost an institution in the UK, they are actually a really tax efficient way to reward employees. Companies have the opportunity to spend up to £150 per person on entertainment for them without attracting tax. So protect the budget for this if you can, it’ll give them all something to look forward over the next few weeks and an opportunity to let their hair down after all their hard work.
For many hard-working employees, having enough allotted time to prepare and conduct their end of year appraisal would be the ultimate way their employer could demonstrate that their contribution and progression is truly valued. As there is little evidence that assigning ratings to individuals actually improves performance, do everything you can to ensure they have the most productive conversation possible with their line managers.
PS For those interested in Naked Fridays, they’ve been a hit at onebestway, a design company up in Newcastle upon Tyne if you fancy dropping by. I’d take a sweater though, it’s nippy up there.
Photo Credit: 27/365 Present – Regalo by Helena Eriksson
