Shine the spotlight on them

In general, the more frequently employers reward workers, the more those workers will aim to please.

The key is making sure rewards fit the size of employees’ accomplishments — and that the rewards vary.

Example: Don’t always give away the same $10 gift cards. Instead, hold a public recognition ceremony or send out a company-wide e-mail praising the employee. Be sure to focus on what the employee did that saved others time, boosted profits or otherwise helped the company.

Offer decision-making power

Another good way to show employees they’re appreciated and make them feel valuable: Encourage supervisors to allow employees to make small financial decisions.

Example: Let employees choose which new desk chairs everyone will get or which prizes will be given away at the next employee appreciation meeting.

Solicit employee ideas

Welcoming ideas from employees about new benefits is a great way to get them plugged into your programs.

Sure, a few suggestions are bound to leave you scratching your head. But if you can use just one, it’s worthwhile.