We have just completed our global study covering 46 countries with respondents ranging from front line contributors to the executive level. Below are the highlights and trends that we see for 2014 and beyond:
1. Choice – The number one trend that the global respondents have resoundingly spoken to is that regardless of role or global location, everyone wants maximum choice as it relates to their personal rewards and recognition. Globally, employees are increasingly dissatisfied and disengaged by reward choices that require them to choose from a pre-selected or finite amount of reward choices. This is consistent with our philosophy around what motivates people is what motivates people. The best of class organizations provide on demand reward and recognition software that enables their employees to choose from hundreds of thousands of choices guaranteeing their recipients will find something motivational to them personally.
2. Flexibility – Parallel to the responses around choice, the global survey also showed significant trending towards more flexible reward and recognition programs. An astounding 74% of the respondents said they would prefer a reward and recognition process that allowed them to have the flexibility to select two or more reward choices versus only one reward option. This trend is also consistent with CSI International’s own clientele moving towards points based recognition systems that allow their employees to choose multiple reward options versus one predetermined reward choice.
3. Instant Gratification – One of the fastest moving trends that we foresee in 2014 is instant gratification reward and recognition processes. The generations that are entering the workforce are much more digitally and socially focused. The global respondents of the CSI International survey showed a significant desire and trend towards digital rewards such as e-books, e-gift cards, music downloads and movie ticket downloads which can be delivered instantly and consumed instantly.
Here is my summary of the trends and inter-relationships from this global survey in one sentence:
Your team of people want what they want, how they want it, and they want it now!
This is consistent with CSI’s philosophy and best practices around providing rewards and recognition that are personalized and situational.
I hope you find these trends and insights helpful as you plan for a successful and engaging 2014.
