Recognizing your team’s hard work and rewarding them for it are meaningful gestures that can do wonders for your business.
Still, balancing budget constraints, diverse preferences, and company values makes this practice challenging.
To help you overcome this issue, we’ve rounded up 30 employee reward ideas and recognition strategies that will make a big impression on your staff.
On top of that, we’ll share a practical step-by-step guide to building a winning rewards and recognition program.
Let’s start!
Table of Contents
What Are the Differences Between Rewards and Employee Recognition?
Why Are Employee Rewards and Recognition Important?
10 Company Swag Ideas to Reward Employees
20 Other Employee Reward and Recognition Ideas
Employee Rewards and Recognition Program: A Step-by-Step Guide
What Are the Differences Between Rewards and Employee Recognition?
Before we go any further, we want to clarify that rewards and recognition are two different concepts that complement each other.
Rewards typically include tangible gifts or monetary incentives.
Whether it’s company swag, a gym membership, or extra paid time off, this type of employee appreciation is thoughtful and memorable.
On the other hand, recognition refers to the public acknowledgment or praise of an employee’s great work.
By giving a shout-out to a team member during a company meeting or sending them a thank-you note, you offer a meaningful experience that holds emotional value.
Used together, these two practices bring incredible benefits, as you’ll see next.
Why Are Employee Rewards and Recognition Important?
Here are some fabulous benefits of recognizing your employees’ contributions and rewarding them with corporate gifts and perks.
Reduce employee turnover
Acknowledging and rewarding staff members shows you see and value all their hard work.
This supportive work environment improves job satisfaction and employee retention.
According to a Nectar survey, 71% of workers would be less likely to quit their jobs if recognized more often.
Boost morale
Celebrating employee birthdays and milestones boosts company-wide morale, creating a happy workplace.
This positive work atmosphere makes people excited to come to work every day and eager to give their best.
Also, remember to include remote employees in these celebrations since they often feel disconnected and unappreciated.
Drive productivity and engagement
If you show team members you’re willing to go the extra mile for them, they’ll do the same for you.
High-quality gifts and verbal acknowledgments motivate employees to strive for excellence and work together to ensure business success.
The same Nectar survey found that work recognition improves engagement in 81.9% of employees.
Create stronger bonds
Recognizing employee achievements and offering great rewards create a sense of trust, appreciation, and belonging.
All these positive feelings create a strong bond between the worker and the company, building brand loyalty.
Likewise, shared work anniversaries and team-building activities create a sense of camaraderie between coworkers, reinforcing the emotional connection.
Now, let’s see how you can reward employees.
10 Company Swag Ideas to Reward Employees
One-of-a-kind promotional products make effective employee incentives for your rewards program.
Get inspired by 10 of our best-selling swag items that will bring joy to your team.
1. MiiR Vacuum Insulated Camp Cup
With nearly three in four Americans drinking coffee daily and many others drinking tea, a branded mug helps employees start their workday pleasantly.
We advise you to switch things up and wow team members with the MiiR insulated camp cup that keeps beverages hot for hours.
Why we recommend it: A custom mug personalized with a motivational quote serves as a constant reminder of your thoughtfulness and can inspire employees to keep up the good work.
2. Moleskine Large Notebook and Kaweco Pen Gift Set
Branded notebooks and pens are classic promotional gifts that will never go out of style given their usefulness and professionalism.
However, if you want your incentive program to drive employee satisfaction and engagement, you should go with this top-of-the-line writing gift set.
Why we recommend it: Moleskine is a deluxe notebook manufacturer, and Kaweco is one of the oldest pen manufacturers in the world, making this a luxury promotional bundle.
3. iLive Portable Cordless Massage Gun
The iLive massage gun is a healthcare promotional item that relieves muscle pain and tension.
Thanks to its four interchangeable heads, which target different muscle groups, this product is ideal for people who spend long hours behind a desk.
Why we recommend it: By promoting corporate wellness, you show your team how much you care about their health and well-being, strengthening your bond.
4. Weekender Deluxe Duffel Bag
The weekender duffel bag is a must-have for team members who frequently go on business trips.
This bag will hold all your employee’s essentials in the spacious main compartment, separate shoe compartment, and three smaller side pockets.
Why we recommend it: Travel promotional products can also accompany workers on vacations, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
5. Aviana Gourmet Backpack Cooler
Snack gift baskets are timeless corporate gifts that people can’t get enough of, so you should always include them in your rewards system.
The Aviana gift set offers mouth-watering sweet and salty treats, all wrapped up in a stylish, reusable cooler.
Why we recommend it: Team members can indulge in this yummy gift or share it with their coworkers to spread joy and camaraderie.
6. All Wrapped Up Gift Set
The All Wrapped Up bundle is a wellness gift that encourages workers to take a break from daily stressors and enjoy a cozy night indoors.
Staff members can wrap themselves in this incredibly soft custom blanket, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and some delicious cookies, and watch a great movie.
Why we recommend it: You can also offer this gift set as a thoughtful work-at-home kit for remote employees.
7. Welly Copper Vacuum Tumbler
If your staff is commuting to work daily, the Welly tumbler will allow them to enjoy their coffee or tea on the go, brightening their mornings.
Our custom tumbler has a durable, double-wall, stainless steel vacuum construction with copper insulation, keeping beverages hot for eight hours.
Why we recommend it: The exquisite powder coating and natural bamboo wrap of this branded product will catch the eye of passersby, subtly exposing your company name.
8. Hydro Flask Wide Mouth With Flex Sip Lid
The Hydro Flask insulated bottle is a magnificent gift choice for your wellness programs because it promotes all-day hydration.
The convenient handle and leakproof lid allow team members to use this promotional gift at work and while exercising.
Why we recommend it: According to the CDC, drinking water prevents dehydration, which can cause unclear thinking, mood swings, overheating, and kidney stones.
9. Tentree Space Dye Hoodie
Offer employees a custom hoodie to keep them warm and comfy throughout the workday.
The Tentree hoodie is an eco-friendly promo item made from an extra-soft, sustainable blend of organic cotton and recycled polyester.
Moreover, this product comes in three office-ready colors and the women’s version also features a zipper.
Why we recommend it: For every purchased hoodie, Tentree plants trees worldwide to regenerate ecosystems.
Therefore, this corporate gift shows team members that your company is committed to environmental sustainability.
10. OTIS SS Polo
Personalized t-shirts are a fun way to welcome new hires, but high-quality polo shirts make much more effective employee incentives.
The Otis SS polo features a breathable, matte-finish fabric with moisture-wicking properties and offers UV protection.
Our clients like that the women’s version has shaped seams and a tapered waist for a more feminine fit.
Why we recommend it: You can choose from 10 trendy colors that you can align with your brand colors, fostering unity and inclusivity in the work environment.
Likewise, remember that wherever team members wear branded apparel they turn into walking billboards, advertising your brand.
20 Other Employee Reward and Recognition Ideas
Promotional materials are lasting keepsakes that constantly remind team members of your appreciation.
However, intangible rewards and employee recognition are equally effective incentives.
Check out 20 creative employee appreciation ideas that get results.
11. Wellness programs
Wellness programs, including access to yoga classes or mental health resources, reduce stress and boost morale.
These programs promote physical and mental health, leading to more energized and engaged employees.
Moreover, this reward system shows you care about your staff’s well-being and want them to achieve a healthy work-life balance.
12. Spotify Premium or Apple Music subscription
According to a 2023 research study, employees who listen to music while working perform better than those who work without music.
Hence, by providing an ad-free music subscription you allow employees to create workday playlists that boost productivity.
Team members can also listen to music on Spotify or Apple Music to unwind after a long day at the office, promoting mental health.
13. Virtual gift cards
Virtual gift cards for Amazon or eBay can be lifesavers if you’re in a rush or don’t know much about an employee.
After all, gift cards allow team members to pick products they need or want in their everyday lives.
Unfortunately, this type of employee incentive is quite impersonal and can make workers feel disconnected from the company.
14. Handwritten notes
Handwritten notes are heartfelt employee recognition ideas that leave a lasting impression.
Take the time to write a few words that express genuine appreciation for your team member’s hard work.
This simple, meaningful gesture will help you build strong relationships with your staff, lift their spirits, and enhance employee engagement.
15. Employee of the Month
A little bit of friendly competition can push your staff to strive for excellence, increasing company-wide productivity.
We recommend setting up an Employee of the Month recognition program to achieve this.
Create a wall of fame in the office and put up the winner’s photo for all to see and be inspired by, promoting peer recognition.
We also recommend rewarding the Employee of the Month with a promotional gift and a shout-out on social media or LinkedIn to make them feel truly valued.
16. Book of the Month membership
Book of the Month is a subscription-based service that provides members with a curated list of fiction books monthly.
If you have bookworms on your team, they’ll love this gift because they’ll never run out of things to read.
Moreover, employees can pick the books they like and receive them via mail without any complex logistics.
17. The afternoon off or an extra day off
Paid time off is one of the most thoughtful and appreciated employee incentives.
A surprise afternoon off lets employees recharge and handle personal errands, boosting morale and productivity.
At the same time, an extra day off allows team members to spend some quality time with their families, which is often more valuable than monetary compensation.
18. Giving to charity
Giving back to the community creates a sense of purpose and makes people feel good about themselves.
So, ask your staff members about the causes or charities they support and donate on their behalf.
Charitable donations show you care about your team’s values and create a sense of employee pride.
19. Flexible work time
Flexible work time can help your staff achieve a healthy work-life balance, which they’ll be eternally grateful for.
After all, it is often invaluable to be able to pick up your kids from school early when they are sick or meet the plumber at home to fix a burst pipe during business hours.
This flexible schedule allows workers to manage their time more efficiently, reducing stress and reinforcing your bond.
20. Subscription to a Meditation or Mindfulness App
Your best employees are constantly under a lot of stress, which can sometimes lead to burnout.
The good news is that meditation and mindfulness apps can help your top talent unwind and improve their mental health.
Give team members access to apps like Calm or Headspace and elevate the reward with our yoga Home Studio Set.
21. Coffee memberships
Coffee memberships offer a daily treat employees will look forward to.
Search for a great coffee shop near the office offering high-quality coffee and delicious pastries.
Likewise, for remote employees, you can look into coffee subscriptions that make home deliveries.
22. Website or newsletter feature
Publicly acknowledging employee achievements is one of the most meaningful forms of recognition.
So, mention top talent in company newsletters or on your website to make them feel valued and inspire others to give their best.
This practice also promotes peer recognition and mutual respect between coworkers, creating a positive work atmosphere.
23. Send them on an adventure
Treating employees to activities like zip-lining or a hot-air balloon ride rewards them with an unforgettable experience.
You can offer workers an adventure voucher they can enjoy with their partner or turn it into a team-building activity.
Either way, this incentive encourages staff members to step out of the office and enjoy the great outdoors, which is good for their health.
24. Event or festival tickets
If your employees are not adventure seekers, event tickets are an excellent alternative.
After all, attending a sports event, concert, film festival, or theater play is just as fun and memorable as an outdoor adventure.
Of course, if you want this employee incentive to have a bigger impact, ensure the event aligns with the worker’s interests.
25. Reserved parking spot
A reserved parking spot might not seem like a big deal, but it offers convenience and shows thoughtfulness.
Employees will no longer have to waste precious time every morning finding an empty spot and then walking far to reach the office.
Moreover, if you can find a spot in an enclosed parking garage, team members will no longer have to worry about cleaning off the snow from their cars during winter.
26. Schedule a happy hour for the team
Inviting employees to a monthly happy hour paid for by the company is a fun way to celebrate teamwork and joint achievements.
It also allows you to get to know workers more personally and build stronger connections with them.
Moreover, an informal setting encourages coworkers to mingle and make new friends, creating more substantial teams.
27. Classes, courses, and seminars
Offering workers development opportunities shows you care about their careers and want to invest in their future.
Professional development classes, courses, and seminars help team members learn new skills and grow.
The best part is that your company can gain a lot from the employees’ newly acquired knowledge and experience.
28. Session with a financial advisor
Financial troubles are a source of stress for employees and can affect their work performance.
Providing staff members with a session with a financial advisor can help them plan for the future and manage their finances better, reducing stress.
Therefore, this thoughtful gesture shows genuine care for your staff’s financial wellness and keeps them focused at work.
29. Team-building activities or retreats
If you want team members to work well together, you must encourage them to communicate and connect more personally.
Team-building activities, like escape rooms and retreats, build trust and improve teamwork.
These shared experiences foster camaraderie between coworkers, creating more cohesive and productive teams.
30. Gym membership
A gym membership can push employees to become more active and improve their health.
After all, according to the World Health Organization, physical inactivity increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and cancer.
For the gym membership’s desired effect, pair it with promotional fitness products, like yoga mats, fitness towels, and reusable water bottles.
Coming up next, we’ll teach you how to set up a successful rewards and recognition program.
Employee Rewards and Recognition Program: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you know how to recognize and reward employees, it’s time to set up a company-wide program.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a successful rewards and recognition program.
1. Define program objectives
Start by determining what you want to achieve.
Do you want to reduce employee turnover, increase productivity and engagement, or boost morale?
With clear objectives in mind, you’ll better understand how to structure the program.
Ensure the program aligns with your company’s culture, values, and mission.
2. Understand employee preferences
Learn everything about your staff by sparking casual conversations or conducting informal surveys.
Remember to inquire about your team members’ cultural backgrounds to avoid offending them or appearing ignorant.
Tailor the incentives and recognition strategies to the employees’ values, preferences, and interests.
Ultimately, your program will feel more personal and meaningful, leaving a lasting impression and strengthening your bonds.
3. Establish clear criteria for recognition
Create a rewards and recognition policy, including the eligibility criteria, and share it with the staff.
Clearly define the type of employee milestones and achievements that will be recognized and rewarded.
You should also be as specific as possible about the type of rewards you’ll be offering depending on the magnitude of the achievement.
This transparency helps team members understand what to expect and makes the entire process look fair and unbiased.
4. Set a realistic budget
Consider the company’s size, financial situation, and the frequency and types of rewards you want to offer.
These factors will help you determine how much you can afford to invest in the rewards program without overspending.
For instance, if the budget is tight, you can reduce the celebration occasions and stick to Christmas gifts, five-year work anniversaries, and outstanding project results.
Also, remember that even a small, budget-friendly gift can have a significant impact as long as it’s meaningful.
5. Offer a variety of reward options
Keep things interesting by offering reward diversity.
Your program should include everything from employee perks, like extra time off and reserved parking spots, to gym memberships and branded merchandise.
As for tangible gifts, we can help you create a swag-on-demand shop offering a curated list of fabulous company swag that your team can choose from.
You’ll no longer have to worry about finding the perfect gift for each employee, as they’ll be the ones picking the promotional materials they like best.
On top of that, team members can even customize the swag with their name or a short message to make the reward more memorable.
6. Leverage technology for program management
Search for an employee recognition platform that tracks achievements and milestones and allows you to send shout-outs or rewards.
Investing in such software is worth it, particularly if you run a large company.
Likewise, you can use Google Calendar to get notified of team member birthdays and work anniversaries.
7. Create a framework for peer-to-peer recognition
If you want to create a positive work environment, you must encourage employees to celebrate each other’s accomplishments.
Peer recognition creates a sense of pride and camaraderie and shows that meaningful appreciation is part of your company’s culture.
Inspire peer recognition by giving a shout-out to a top-performing employee on social media or Slack, where team members can react with emojis or leave congratulatory comments.
At the same time, you can organize a team outing to celebrate a team member’s accomplishments jointly.
8. Encourage continuous feedback
Nothing is set in stone regarding your rewards and recognition program.
You should always be open to new ideas to keep things fresh and drive employee engagement.
Therefore, you should regularly conduct anonymous surveys to seek constructive feedback from your staff and make adjustments.
9. Measure and evaluate success
Constantly track and measure your incentive program’s performance to ensure it yields the desired results.
For instance, you can monitor employee productivity, satisfaction, and turnover rates or conduct surveys.
This regular assessment will help you identify the strengths and weaknesses of the program, allowing you to make improvements.
10. Celebrate successes publicly
Never underestimate or overlook public employee recognition.
A public shout-out can boost morale and drive engagement even if your company budget doesn’t allow for expensive gifts or frequent team outings.
Showcase accomplishments in company meetings, newsletters, on social media or LinkedIn and you’ll make team members feel seen and valued.
Moreover, these public acknowledgments will motivate the rest of the staff to strive for excellence.
Now, it’s your turn.
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Over to You!
A well-thought-out employee rewards and recognition program can be a game-changer for your company.
Successful incentive programs inspire team members to give their best, improve job satisfaction, and build loyalty.
So, use our insights and get to work.
Browse our SwagDrop Shop for more one-of-a-kind employee reward ideas.