How can I reward call center agents on a budget?

I just took over a small customer service department and it’s already apparent to me that morale is very low. There is no bud g et for employee rewards, but I need to find some low cost (or even better, no cost) ways to reward my employees in order to motivate them. Any ideas?

Myra's answer to: How can I reward call center agents on a budget?

There are two things people want more than sex and money…recognition and praise.

Mary Kay Ash

Mary Kay is right, as studies indicate that employees find personal recognition more motivational than money. A work climate filled with praise and recognition is a workplace where employees are positive, productive and motivated.

Recognizing and rewarding employees doesn’t have to cost a lot of money or take a lot of time. Perhaps the primary reason more managers don’t take the time to intentionally motivate employees is that they lack the time and creativity to come up with ideas. After reading this week’s article you will have no excuse to not motivate your team, because I am giving you 10 low cost ways to recognize and reward your employees.

1. Call an employee into your office just to thank him or her; don’t discuss any other issue.

2. Give the employee a 2-hour lunch.

3. Send a thank you note to a spouse thanking them for their support during the employee’s overtime.

4. Hold a potluck lunch for your group.

5. Write a letter of praise to employees recognizing their specific contributions and accomplishments.

6. Send an email acknowledgement and copy your boss or higher manager.

7. When paychecks go out, write a note on the envelope recognizing an employee’s accomplishment. (They’re sure not to miss this one!)

8. Give gift certificates.

9. Provide an extra break.

10. Invite employees to your home for a special celebration in front of their colleagues and spouses.