Motivating Employees (September 2009) |
Employee Benefits -> EB Article Library
In the current economic downturn it has become more important than ever for organisations to get the best out of their assets and resources. For most businesses this means maximising employee performance - the key to this can be found in employee engagement. Ensuring staff are fully engaged encourages commitment and motivates the individual to go ‘that extra mile’ for an organisation 100% of the time.
The consequences of poor employee engagement and motivation are wide-ranging and more significant than most employers appreciate; poor morale, absenteeism and general failure to maximise daily performance will inevitably result in poor service levels and ultimately compromise the quality of the final product.
Implementing motivation schemes offering staff incentives has been proven to be highly successful in improving engagement and raising performance. These schemes provide a focus for specific activity, long and short term, and generate attention and momentum, which can otherwise be lacking on a daily basis. Incentive schemes can not only encourage better performance but also ideas to improve the business and company loyalty. Improved employee engagement can translate to an increased awareness of the company ‘brand’ helping to retain staff and attract new employees.
What types of incentive rewards are there?
There are many types of reward but an important aspect is that any scheme should be flexible in order to motivate a diverse group of individuals of different ages and interests. Reward types will often vary from travel, experiences, merchandise or even extra annual leave days. Traditionally companies have offered cash or vouchers and, in recent years, online points banking or gift cards. Vouchers, aside from their versatility, offer great opportunities for marketing campaigns (internal and external) whilst branded multi-store gift cards have proven hugely successful in the B2B market.
Increasingly organisations are choosing to implement online points based reward schemes allowing for a new level of interactivity, opportunities to reinforce the company brand and greater flexibility on the types of rewards that can be offered. Staff are given individual log in details to access a website where they can view the rewards on offer and the number of points they have earned to date.
Implementing an Incentive Scheme
A clear definition and understanding of the aims and achievements for which points will be awarded is essential for the implementation of a successful scheme. These might be to reward loyalty, improve customer service, enhance health and safety, reduce absenteeism and staff turnover, for example. Along with setting clear targets, that will inspire employees, regular communications starting with an exciting launch will help generate interest and enthusiasm for the scheme. Finally it is essential that once achieved rewards are delivered promptly to employees to keep them engaged and motivated.
Contact Cartlidge Morland for more information and details of how we can help.
Cartlidge Morland is an independent employee benefits consultancy. We provide benefit services to a wide range of partnerships, family companies, PLCs, charities and governmental organisations. We also provide financial advice to private clients, investment management and mortgage broking services.
Phone us on 020 7709 5560 or complete the online contact form
