In today's competitive work environment, keeping employees engaged and motivated is crucial for productivity.According to Slack's 2023 study “The State of Work,” 82% of workers surveyed said feeling happy and engaged at work was important for their productivity. A study published by McKinsey in 2023 includes happiness factors like meaningful work and supportive coworkers in the top six drivers for employee engagement.
Boosting employee productivity starts with fostering satisfaction and engagement. Here at Food For Thought, we specialize in workplace solutions that enhance both motivation and morale. Whether through creative incentives, wellness programs, or food services, our tips will help you keep your employees inspired and productive.
As Jim Goodnight — cofounder and CEO of SAS Institute — says, "Treat employees like they make a difference, and they will.” Let’s explore how you can implement this philosophy in your business.
Understanding Employee Motivation
Psychologists Richard Ryan and Edward Deci introduced the concept of intrinsic motivation in their 1985 book, “Self-Determination and Intrinsic Motivation in Human Behavior.” They found that people are motivated by autonomy, competence, and connection, rather than external rewards. Empowering employees to make independent decisions and feel competent at their work leads to higher levels of engagement and satisfaction.
If you can make your employees feel seen, heard and valued in their workplace, it can significantly increase their motivation. Employees who feel appreciated and supported will want to contribute to their team and further their company’s mission. Fulfilled employees can completely change the focus and productivity levels at your workplace.
Are you looking to develop employee programs that boost motivation? Each of the following program ideas can be tailored to fit your business and motivational goals.
Proven Strategies to Engage and Motivate Employees
There are many motivational programs to choose from. To find the best one for your organization, experiment with the options below. Often, a combination of programs achieves the best results for motivating employees and improving productivity at a business.
1. Motivational Gifts for Employees
A 2023 survey revealed that 67% of American employees feel underappreciated for their contributions at work. Recognition is key to building loyalty and maintaining high morale. Offering both monetary and non-monetary rewards can encourage employees to go the extra mile.
Here are a few ideas for motivational employee gifts:
Bonuses for exceeding performance goals or deadlines
Team-building prizes for top-performing groups
Personalized gifts after reaching milestones
Gifts can also include financial rewards, travel, local business discounts, gift cards, new tools and technology and more. Whatever you use as a reward system for employees and motivation, make sure it’s consistent and fair. Get feedback on how employees feel so you can continue refining rewards.
These rewards can include anything from travel experiences and gift cards to discounts at local businesses. The key is to ensure the reward system is fair, consistent, and tailored to employees’ interests.
For example, you could implement a program where employees receive personalized gifts based on their hobbies, or send them their favorite coffee as a reward for completing projects. Such gestures make employees feel valued while fostering a sense of accomplishment.
Tip: To make your reward system more effective, align gifts with company milestones and tie them to specific performance metrics.
2. Health and Wellness Programs
A healthy workforce is a motivated workforce. A Gallup survey in 2023 showed that only 34% of American employees feel they are thriving in their well-being. Health and wellness programs are an effective way to boost engagement and reduce stress.
Here are some wellness program ideas:
Company-sponsored gym memberships or on-site fitness centers
Ergonomic workstations to support physical well-being
Life coaching or mentorship to promote personal growth
Successful programs cater to the specific needs of your workforce. For example, desk-bound employees may appreciate ergonomic equipment, while physically demanding roles may benefit from access to massage therapy. Wellness programs not only support physical health but also enhance employee retention by showing that you care about their well-being.
Here's a quick example of a successful health and wellness program. Imagine employees who work in an accounting office. Each year after the busy tax season, their employers pay for a massage and give them paid time off over a long weekend. This program makes employees feel valued and motivates them to get through tax season.
Tip: Ensure your health and wellness programs directly address your employees' needs. Consider surveying employees to learn more about the wellness programs they'd prefer.
3. In-Office Food Programs
The link between nutrition and productivity is well established. Research from OSHA reveals that 83% of U.S. workers experience work-related stress. Although stress at work can temporarily motivate employees, long-term stress leads to burnout and disengagement.
One way to reduce stress at work is through in-office food programs. Focus and motivation are closely tied to energy levels. The quality of food your employees eat directly affects their blood sugar and emotional swings. When your team stays fed and hydrated, they can better balance their energy and stress throughout the workday.
While some people eat a few large meals a day, others thrive on healthy snacks and meals every few hours. Offering your employees high-quality food at their workplace is an excellent way to boost their daily motivation.
Examples of in-office food programs include:
Healthy office snacks to keep energy levels consistent
Drop-off catering services for special events
Micro markets that offer a variety of fresh, healthy meal options
When employees are well-fed, they are more focused, energized, and less prone to the negative effects of stress. Additionally, shared mealtimes provide opportunities for team bonding and collaboration.
For instance, a legal office offering catered lunches during the busy season can help alleviate stress and promote teamwork, ensuring employees remain sharp and productive.
Here's an example of an in-office food program. Envision a legal office that offers employees fresh, healthy lunches five days a week. Employees don't have to pack lunch, and they have sustained energy throughout the day because their food reduces stress and enhances mental sharpness. Employees will feel cared for and work more effectively as a result.
Tip: Include options so employees feel they have personal choice in your in-office food program. You should also check for any employee food allergies and accommodate them.
Partner With Food For Thought to Boost Employee Motivation
Food For Thought is Chicago's leading food service and events provider. Our workspace solutions are designed to make your business a better place to work, motivating employees through micro markets, coffee kiosks and catered events. As Chicago’s premier food service and event provider, we offer workspace solutions designed to foster employee engagement and productivity.
Our services include:
Micro markets stocked with healthy, energizing food options
Coffee kiosks to keep your team fueled throughout the day
Catering for corporate events to boost team morale
At Food For Thought, we are guided by our core pillars: people, product, and planet. This commitment ensures that our services enhance your business’s work environment while remaining sustainable.
Are you ready to transform your workplace into a hub of motivation and productivity? Contact us today for a free consultation, and discover how our tailored workspace solutions can elevate your team.
