The rise of COVID-19 in 2020 saw governments from around the globe imposing guidelines to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
As a response to the new normal, many companies shifted from an on-site setting of conducting business to work from home, or remote working, or hybrid work arrangements.
To keep remote workers motivated, few companies resorted to monetary rewards, while many struggling companies used non-monetary incentives to show appreciation and encourage their employees.
What are the Best Non-Monetary Ways to Recognize Performance Remotely?
It will be beneficial to your company if you support your employees throughout this work from the home era. There are many ways to link with your employees to build trust and remain loyal, and most of them revolve around establishing a relationship of mutual respect.
Most companies hit rock-bottom post-pandemic, they find a hard time giving financial provision to their employees. But this does not mean that you can’t support your employees. Think of non-monetary incentives to motivate your workforce.
Get some inspiration from these six non-monetary incentives to reward your employees for their work.
Send out Personalized Tangible Gifts
The shift towards hybrid kept the internal communication channels and employees busy. Recognize their hard work by sending each member a box of pizza.
A pet parent will surely be delighted with a box of toys and treats for their furry friend. If an employee loves cuddling with their cat, get them a handmade catnip blanket.
Let your employees know that you care about their wellbeing at home with a complete spa care package. This will encourage them to practice self-care and relax during their free time.
Show your gratitude to them with a mystery game box to share with other family members during the lockdown
Work with your employees to create a reward system based on their preferences and your budget. Consider custom apparel, business cards, and more as you move away from financial incentives.
Surprise your remote workers with flowers, celebrating a birthday or an occasion remotely.
Workstation Support
Remote workers spend long periods of time sitting in front of the computer. Over time, they will suffer back and neck pain, bad posture, and carpal tunnel and will slowly erode the employee’s well-being.
Ask your employees for their requests for workstation equipment, check your budget, and ship it out directly to their homes for convenience.
An ergonomic workspace can create an efficient work environment. Adjustable standing desks and ergonomic office chairs decrease pains, improve health, and lead to higher productivity levels, making your employees happy.
Celebrate Their Success as Part of the Team, Whatever The Distance
Any employee will appreciate recognition when they go beyond their work. COVID-19 shouldn’t stop you from recognizing your hardworking employees for the work they do.
A virtual awards program is a great appreciation idea to highlight employee achievements and key milestones. Show their success stories through a string of video interviews and shout-outs on social media platforms. You can add a slideshow by displaying figures on how this employee stood out.
Flexible working
Flexibility at work can be a tremendous non-monetary reward. Employees would love to work at their own pace. Allow employees working from home to switch their work schedules or give them break times.
You don’t want to have a burnout employee in your midst and drag your company’s goals down. Some symptoms are loss of motivation, withdrawal from responsibilities. Isolation, and longer time to get things done.
Designate no-meeting periods during the week. This will help people who are experiencing burnout.
Additional Time Off
Anybody would love an additional day off aside from the annual paid leaves. This is a perfect employee incentive as a reward for getting things done and motivating the employee to strive.
Allowing your employees a Friday off will give them a long weekend and get them fully recharged for the week ahead. Remote workers often get worn out. A long weekend will give them time to let off steam, get housework done, and more time with the family.
You may want to consider an early Friday finish and a late Monday start.
One-on-One Online meetings
Reward your employees with one-on-one online meetings. This is an opportunity to speak and ask them what you need to do to help them grow. Likewise, you can get some feedback about their problems in the workplace and address your employees’ issues.
It’s a fantastic way to show your gratitude for their hard work.
Professional and Personal Development Online Training
While money can inspire employees to work harder, it does not always improve performance or add to employee happiness in the same way that training and development do.
Providing opportunities for your employees to advance their professional careers and personal growth can keep them motivated in their work while also enhancing the company's bottom line. Giving them extra responsibilities, even small, can signal to your employees that you believe they're ready to take on a bigger position.
It also instills a growth attitude in your employee, allowing them to focus on their objectives, enhance their skills, and seek out new personal and professional chances. This is especially compelling in hybrid workplaces, where many employees feel their careers are stagnating, only to see their output rise.
Though some training and development programs can be expensive, the advantages and retention (together with employee appreciation) can lead to superior overall performance.
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