INT 192 - Understanding How to Reward Your Team Members

In today's rapidly evolving workplace, employees crave more than just a paycheck. They seek purpose, growth opportunities, and recognition for their unique contributions. How do you ensure that each individual's efforts are acknowledged in a way that resonates with them personally?

In this episode, I discuss this topic with Marty Bryson, an experienced HR professional and Benefits Manager at Chapters Healthcare. Learn how she creates tailored reward systems that recognize employee achievements and foster an environment of continuous learning and personal development.

Marty's Career Journey

• Marty Bryson has built an extensive career as an HR practitioner with over 25 years of experience, primarily focusing on helping employees navigate their benefits.

• Currently, she serves as the Benefits Manager for Chapters Health and is the President of the HR Florida State Council, continuing her mission of improving employee welfare and education opportunities.

When to Reward Employees

• Many leaders wonder how often they should reward their employees.

• Marty explains that recognizing small achievements can have a significant impact.

• This recognition shows employees that their efforts are noticed, which can be motivating, especially during challenging times.

The Importance of Individualized Rewards

• Marty highlights the significance of personalized rewards. She states emerging professionals often seek mentors and education opportunities, while seasoned employees might want bigger projects and continuous learning opportunities.

• Lifelong learning is a substantial intrinsic reward that companies can offer their employees.

Types of Reward Systems

• There are both tangible and intangible reward systems.

• While fair pay and robust benefits are fundamental expectations, intangible rewards like thank-you notes and public recognition can be more impactful.

• Marty suggests options ranging from using a dedicated module in an HR system to simple bulletin boards for kudos.

Personal Reward Stories

• Marty shares a touching story about receiving handwritten notes from conference attendees and team members, recognizing her impact.

• I follow with my own story of a treasured plaque from a historic hotel, emphasizing that rewards don't need to be expensive but should reflect genuine appreciation.

“Someone who is maybe more seasoned in their career journey wants bigger projects. They also want education opportunities. Most adults these days are lifelong learners, and given the opportunity to learn something new, they will grasp it. So, one of the biggest intrinsic rewards that a company or organization can give an employee these days is the opportunity to learn.” -Marty Bryson.

Resources

Marty Bryson on LinkedIn