Every business has employees, and all employees need to be motivated in order to stay healthy, happy, and productive. Human Resources experts know this, and they also know the power rewards and recognition have when it comes to motivation.

In business, recognition usually takes one of two forms: cash or merchandise. It might surprise you to learn that merchandise is considered more effective. Participants in a study by the Incentive Marketing Association label cash an “unemotional” reward, noting that it’s most likely used to pay bills or stashed in a checking or savings account, taking with it the memory of why it was given in the first place and defeating its power as a motivating force. Conversely, a whopping 80% of respondents agree that merchandise is remembered longer than cash.

What kind of merchandise are we talking about here? At the high end you have things like brand-name luggage, watches, writing instruments, and other items typically associated with sales incentive programs and length-of-service awards. At the other end of the spectrum are everyday promotional products like logoed wearables, pins, certificates, trophies, electronics, binders – virtually anything that fits the job and the employee being recognized.

The key here is using promotional products to maintain a connection to the company, to act as a visible, lasting sign of your appreciation. The choices are limitless. What’s most important is that this kind of recognition becomes a basic part of your business management plan, a way to promote teamwork, productivity, and quality.

HR experts know the importance of rewarding achievement. As a business-owner or manager, make it your business to sit down with your Human Resources staff and discuss ways in which you can protect and motivate your most valuable asset – your employees.

I’ll be glad to help. Call me at 212-868-1813 or send me an e-mail if you’d like to explore different ways to express your appreciation of your human resources. .