Inspire your Employees during Uncertain Times

I recently read an article "Beyond Bonuses" by Heather Larson featured in "My Business" magazine, a publication of the National Federation of Independent Business that highlighted some practical ways business owners can inspire and reward faithful employees after a job well done. During these uncertain economic times, employees everywhere, including big bank Wachovia, are hearing about job-loss, benefit cuts, and falling stock prices. How are we, the small business, to keep our employees motivated when there's nothing on CNN except doom and gloom?

Step out of the box and toss on your creativity hat. It's time to figure out what low-cost way your business can use to reward the employees who go the extra mile to make your company a success. This article highlighted a salon in Indianapolis who rewarded her stylists with "Vivi Bucks" which they could redeem for spa services. These bucks were earned by customer reviews, innovative ideas, and random acts of kindness.

I worked for a staffing company in Raleigh, NC under an enthusiastic boss who always had crazy ideas for his employees. One day I came into work and found a giant (about 5 foot tall) Kermit the Frog sitting in my desk chair. This Kermit later became a symbol of a job well done. At weekly staff meetings, our boss would announce the new winner of the 'Kermit Award.' Nominations were taken from other co-workers during the previous month and Kermit was then allowed to sit in the winner's office for their month of glory. Now, I have to say, kermit didn't really float my boat. Besides, he's huge and got in the way. But if I could go the extra mile and get my highlights for free... well, that'd be something to work for.

What could your company offer as an incentive? Remember, the goal is to keep the cost minimal but the impact a maximum.

This article listed the following ideas:
-Extra Time Off
-Free Lunch
-Restaurant gift certificate
-A box of treats on their desk
-Event tickets
-Spa gift certificates
-Sporting event tickets
-Free company gear
-Shout-outs at staff meetings.

Have you offered any incentives at your small business that have worked well? Please post a comment and share them with our blog reading community.