8 Non-Monetary Incentives for Remote Employees That Actually Work

According to one of the most recent studies on the use of incentives, 84% of businesses are now investing in non-cash incentives such as merchandise, award points, gift cards, trips, and other similar items.

As a result, an increasing number of business leaders are utilizing non-monetary incentives to motivate and reward employees. But is this truly what the employees desire? According to a study conducted by the Incentive Research Federation for the Incentive Marketing Association, the answer is yes: non-cash incentives are preferred by up to 65% of employees over monetary rewards.

Let’s explore how you can boost your employee motivation and try to be that little bit more thoughtful when it comes to motivation.

1.   Send out personalized gifts

No matter the occasion, physical gifts raise morale. They are more than just material gifts; they're ways to show appreciation and make employees feel valued.

According to one employee happiness survey, 45% of respondents believe that appreciation gifts reflect their value at a company.

Personalized work-related items aren’t the only way to go, you could send out a mug or other items that show the employee they’re appreciated.

A box of toys and treats for their furry friend will undoubtedly delight a pet parent. Get a handmade catnip blanket for an employee who enjoys cuddling with their cat.

With a full spa care package, you can show your employees that you care about their well-being at home. This will encourage them to take care of themselves and relax in their spare time.

Personalized gifts can be related to work – things like custom printed t-shirts, polos, hats, business cards and more can all be a way to give the employee more of an identity and keep them comfortable while they work.

2.   Workstation support

Help the employee with workstation support. Offering guidance on how to set up a workspace and sending them the necessary equipment to set up their workstation at home can be a way to get the most out of employees but also help them to feel productive.

Remote workers spend a significant amount of time sitting in front of a computer. They will suffer from back and neck pain, poor posture and carpal tunnel syndrome over time, gradually eroding the employee's well-being.

An ergonomic workspace can help to create a more efficient working environment. Adjustable standing desks and ergonomic office chairs reduce pains, improve health and lead to increased productivity, which makes your employees happy.

3.   Provide a chance to be the boss for a day

Giving top performers the opportunity to be the boss for a day is not just a nice way to reward great work; it’s also important training for your company's future.

This is a chance for role reversal and to add some more responsibility. It can be fun for the employee, but might also be a way for them to learn more about the role and the way the company operates in general.

4.   Celebrate their success, no matter the distance

According to one client employee satisfaction survey, 55% of respondents said that praise and attention from their supervisor would make them feel cared for and valued at work.

In the office, you might have leaderboards and other ways to acknowledge the success of your workers. Out of the office, this is very hard to create and replicate, so you need to make a point of doing so. How can you celebrate someone’s success from afar?

One of the best ways is to create an online portal or platform or make a point of having weekly meetings to thank and congratulate someone on a job well done. If an employee never sees that their work is appreciated, then the chances of them feeling motivated to do their job well and improve are slim.

5.   Provide flexibility at work and extra time off

Offering flexibility can assist employees in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Employees would prefer to work according to their own schedules. It will result in increased organizational commitment, job satisfaction and overall employee loyalty.

Employees will feel recognized for their efforts and motivated to work harder if they’re given a day off as a reward.

You may be able to give them extra time to pick the kids up from school or have a half-day on Fridays.

6.   Online professional development courses

Providing development courses for your employees benefits everyone. Employees will be more engaged and feel rewarded, recognized and motivated all year long if their workplace embraces learning. You might even be able to incentivize them to take courses with the potential for other rewards and recognition when they complete.

Development courses examples can be attending conferences, improving transferable skills such as writing and grammar or developing new techniques to better promote their work.

7.   Establish social media currency

Does your workplace have a social network or are you active on social media? People enjoy the ‘clout’ of social media recognition. You can reward your employees by providing them with a bit more recognition, and even badges and nominations they can show on their LinkedIn or other profiles.

This is the sort of thing that some of your employees will be likely to really latch onto, while others might not, so make sure it isn’t the only incentive you have on offer.

8.   Online one-on-one feedback

Providing one-to-one attention is vital. If you’ve ever had a boss who doesn't seem to check in or particularly care, then you’ll recognize that this doesn’t motivate you well.

One-on-one sessions are not only a good way to provide a little guidance, but also to build a relationship with your employee. The sessions will likely revolve around work and targets, but don’t be afraid to build a personal relationship, check in, and give some support to your workers. A company culture of looking out for one another can be yet another incentive to remain within the company and look to progress. Give employees the chance to share with you if they want to.