When it comes to motivating employees, no two people are alike.

An employee’s age provides a useful guide for what forms of recognition are most appropriate.

Here are the generation-specific rewards each group is most likely to appreciate.

Generation Y (born 1981 or later)

The youngest employees tend to place the greatest emphasis on work-life balance.

Rewarding these employees with the ability to work from home — or an extra floating holiday — tends to get better results than formal rewards or prizes.

Generation X (1964-1980)

This group tends to be more informal than older employees.

Some Gen-Xers covet trendy or name-brand prizes — like an iTunes gift card.

Others prefer company golf outings or attending similar social events.

Baby Boomers (1946-1963)

Many Baby Boomers prefer rewards that show management appreciates their hard work.

For instance, theater tickets or restaurant gift cards are often popular rewards.

Alternatively, some Boomers prefer recognition ceremonies — especially when their families can be present.

Seniors (born before 1946)

The employees of the so-called Gold Watch Generation grew up in a business culture steeped in formality and focused on rewarding seniority.

As a result, formal rewards (e.g., wall plaques) that are presented publicly tend to resonate most with these employees.

Does your company have a unique way of rewarding or motivating employees? Let us know in the Comments Box below.

Tags: baby boomers, Generation X, Generation Y, motivating employees, rewards, Seniors