Most employee of the month programs are similar: They recognize a worker for his/her performance with a certificate and access to a prime parking place for a few weeks. These are wonderful gestures, but are they really all that motivating by themselves?

To make your Employee of the Month program more meaningful, consider these suggestions:

Take a photo of the employee when presenting his/her certificate. You can then place the photo in a picture frame, engraved with the month/year of recognition – making a desktop reminder of your corporate appreciation.

Give the honored employee a prepaid-phone card. It can be imprinted with your corporate logo and a message of thanks. The employee can then call distant family or friends to share the good news.

Send flowers in an etched glass vase that then serves as a commemorative reminder of the month and year the employee was recognized.

Provide a company store/catalog with corporate-imprinted merchandise to allow honorees to choose the reward that best suits their needs.

Encourage repeat performance. Set up a tracking program that occasionally honors those who’ve received this honor more than once. Three-timers could receive a special award, such as a watch, to symbolize the time they’ve given to your company.

Remind all staff what you’re looking for in an employee of the month. A customized calendar could highlight special qualities or achievements that qualify (e.g., feature one goal per month). The calendars could serve double duty, not only inspiring your employees but also illustrating to customers your corporate values.

These are just a few of many ideas and products that we can show you. Give us a call at 708-478-8222 or send us an e-mail and we’ll map out the best way to say thanks to your special employees.

Your promotional solutions marketing partners,