Let’s be honest, a trip to a fun far-off place was a great motivator for any sales or performance-based team. However, the reality of travel restrictions, in addition to travel hesitancy has made this tried-and-true reward tactic more difficult to execute. At the same time, performance-based teams are being called upon to do more than ever in the current competitive environment, which means effective alternatives have to be offered instead. Here are a few of our favorite back-up options when group incentive travel just isn’t feasible:
Customized Individual Travel
Think of it like a travel gift card and a pre-determined selection of travel experiences someone can mix and match based on their desired preferences. Working alongside larger hotel & resort brands can give you flexibility to serve nationwide or even international teams with local options they should be able to access nearby. Included meals, spa packages, and other unique experiences can share the same monetary value, but guests get the freedom to choose what they like best. A great bonus idea: Offer guests the chance to trade in 1 large trip for a single person for a smaller trip for 2!
Virtual Shopping Spree
There’s nothing like instant gratification for a job well done. But instead of simply giving out Amazon gift cards, take the time to curate a special collection of interesting items and one-of-a-kind finds. Go beyond branded calculators and water bottles and think of things like a free year of Netflix (or similar streaming service), home office products, unlimited meal delivery for a month from a favorite restaurant brand, and other less common rewards.
Start Granting Wishes
Sure, everyone likes travel, but when asked if they could have “anything” as a reward, you might be surprised to find they’d rather have a home remodeling project, an exclusive designer sneaker release, hard-to-find concert tickets, or even a college scholarship for their kids. Why not explore offering these rewards to your top producers and showing them that you care about what they care about?
About the VIBE Agency: The VIBE Agency is a Miami-based award-winning full-service production agency that specializes in the creation and orchestration of live and virtual experiences for the corporate industry. The agency is forward-thinking and was recognized as one of the 50 top event companies by Special Events magazine in 2019 and 2020. Most recently, Valerie Bihet, founder of the VIBE was named a Smart Women in Meetings 2021 Hall of Fame honoree by Smartmeetings, for her consistent work advancing the industry. If it can’t be live, make it VIBE!
