How to

If one can draw any single conclusion from all of the research conducted over the last 30 years related to engagement and performance, it's the need to have a formal strategy that identifies the key audiences that can affect an outcome and all of the levers necessary to foster their proactive involvement in achieving organizational goals. Despite the inclination to "dumb down"... [ read more ]

Over the last 20 years, the incentive, recognition and rewards (IRR) business has seen an explosion in reward innovation, starting of course with online programs, but also including a wide variety of different merchandise products, gift cards, e-vouchers, digital rewards, personal fittings and travel experiences. Despite such innovations, program design appears to ... [ read more ]

Everyone knows that word of mouth is the best advertising; it literally costs nothing because, according to Gallup research, customers who feel "wow" about a company will willingly share their happiness with friends or colleagues without any incentive at all. The smartest customer referral programs leverage the ... [ read more ]

Recognition is an essential part of any successful engagement strategy. Directly addressing the very human need for acknowledgment and purpose solidifies the relationship of employees to the organization, and also provides direction to keep the team on track to achieve company goals. ... [ read more ]

Employee engagement principles provide the opportunity to turn recognition costs into investments by putting the focus on the end-result... [ read more ]

In the case of incentive and recognition programs, answering a few basic questions can make the difference between measurable success and ending up behind the 8-ball... [ read more ]

Managers in operations, marketing, sales and human resources programs often turn to incentives to hit key short-term goals. Many like the simplicity of the "do this, get that" notion and in such cases feel that spot incentive programs can provide just the jolt needed to achieve certain goals. ... [ read more ]

Retaining top performers and preparing them to take over the reins in the next decade is a top priority for most organizations. A crucial part of that process will involve merchandise and gift card programs that inspire and... [ read more ]

The emerging field of engagement is putting a new emphasis on careful selection, presentation, and customization of packaging, delivery and rewards. A pair of sunglasses. Pretty standard stuff. Most of us have a few around the house or in the car. Lose a pair, pick up a replacement at the drugstore.... [ read more ]

In the April 23, 2015 online edition of Employee Benefit News, Richard Stolz authored an article about the increasing use of incentives in wellness programs as a means to create "urgency for results." He cites new research from Optum (a division of UnitedHealth Group) that indicates programs offering... [ read more ]