By now, most managers and business owners understand that positive reinforcement in the form of rewards is a great way to keep productivity up and employees motivated. However, choosing the right method of rewards and benefits to improve employee productivity can be challenging. If the reward system chosen by the employer holds little meaning or value to their employees, productivity can actually suffer, not to mention, the company will lose out on the time and money spent to implement the ineffective rewards system.

In order to select an effective recognition system to increase productivity, the employer first needs to set specific and measurable productivity goals. To do this successfully, it is imperative for the employer to understand what truly motivates their employees and consider a number of possible rewards and benefits. Some of the most effective employee rewards also tend to be the most simple. Take a look at the following perks to determine if these benefits could be included in your company’s reward system.

• Praise. Though often overlooked due to its simplicity, praise is free and an excellent employee motivator. While generic compliments do not carry much weight, targeted praise tied specifically to an employee’s performance is a great method for sustaining and improving productivity. Public recognition for a job well done goes a long way for boosting employee morale and motivation – for the individual employee, as well as the rest of them team who overhears the words of praise.
• Training and education. Offering learning opportunities as a benefit to increase productivity is a win-win situation for the employee as well as the employer. Higher education and training opportunities allow the employee to remain knowledgeable, passionate, and marketable in their profession, while the company also benefits from the employee’s increased knowledge and experience.
• Flexibility. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is one of the most coveted perks by today’s workforce. Recent studies show that employers who allow their employees to achieve a well-balanced work and home life are rewarded with increased productivity from their employees. Offering flex time, work-from-home opportunities, or even on site gym memberships are all proven examples of benefits used to help employees meet their work and home demands.

When it comes to rewards, many managers automatically think big; however, a little can go a very long way. Sometimes, simple acts of recognizing an employee’s extra effort can make all the difference. Mississippi’s leading staffing firm, Staffers, Inc., has been helping Jackson area businesses attract and retain top employees for over two decades. If you are looking for additional resources to develop an effective rewards system in your own company, contact Staffers, Inc. today!