If yours is one of the many companies that have cut employee “extras” in the past few months to keep budgets under control, here are six things you may want to consider providing instead:
- A favorite book, DVD, CD, etc. Encourage managers to pass along something that’s inspired them, and include a note explaining why they decided to share it with the recipient.
- A handwritten “thank you” note. Nothing conveys to someone that he or she is appreciated quite like a handwritten note, especially if it’s from a member of the company’s top brass.
- Greetings from the CEO. A great way to say “thanks” for a job well done: Ask your CEO to walk through the department and shake the hands of all those involved in the accomplishment.
- Social network your thanks. A company-wide e-mail is always a popular way to pat someone on the back. But if you want to really go above and beyond, especially for younger, more tech-savvy workers, post a “thank you” note on your company’s Twitter or Facebook page. Just be sure to cite people by name.
- Time. Another reward that never gets old: Give out a half or full day off. Sure, time is money. But it may look better than taking cash directly out your budget to reward a job well done.
- A potluck party. The company can pay for the sodas and each employee can bring in his or her favorite dish. Tip: Make sure everyone brings in a copy of their recipe — someone will want it.
What are some low-cost ways your company rewards employees? Share them in the Comments Box below.
