Randstad's latest research into employer branding and what people want from their jobs has shown that attractive salary and benefits remain the most important factor for 62% of workers in 2021.

However, this was closely followed by other motivators that were more related to personal wellbeing and happiness:

Work/life balance (58%)
Job security (56%)
Pleasant work atmosphere (55%)
Career progression (49%)

COVID-19 and other recent challenges have left many countries and individual organizations in a difficult financial situation. As a result, it might be difficult for HR managers and business owners to justify raising pay or providing financial bonuses for hardworking staff who have helped their companies get through this challenging time.

Fortunately, there are various non-monetary incentives you can use to motivate your workforce and retain your most valuable people. Here are ten examples:

1. flexible working arrangements

Flexible and remote working became essential for many employers during the pandemic, as physical distancing restrictions made normal workplace arrangements impossible. This is expected to have permanent consequences for the world of work. More than three-quarters (78%) of CEOs surveyed by PwC said remote collaboration will be an enduring shift in the post-pandemic world, while 61% said the same about low-density workplaces.

Giving people who have proven themselves trustworthy the option to continue working flexibly or remotely on a permanent basis could be an effective way to reward them. It will help them achieve a better work/life balance and free up time they would otherwise spend commuting.

Flexible working can encompass anything from giving employees the freedom to work from home on a certain number of days each week, to letting people choose their own core working hours instead of the typical 9 to 5.

2. training

As our latest Employer Brand Research showed, career progression opportunities are an important factor for nearly half (49%) of people when choosing an employer. One effective way you can reward and recognize your employees is by providing training opportunities that will help them learn new skills and move forward in their careers.

This doesn't have to be an expensive undertaking, especially if you have experienced employees in your workforce who have knowledge and capabilities they can pass on to their colleagues.

Furthermore, providing training for your workforce can position your organization for future success by helping you nurture talent and plug skills gaps.

3. direct recognition for staff who consistently excel

Sometimes, all employees want is a small gesture or sign of appreciation from their manager or employer, so they know that all their hard work isn't going unnoticed. Past research has highlighted the connection between staff recognition and retention.

Recognizing people's efforts and achievements could be as simple as sending an email (with business leaders copied in) to offer congratulations on a job well done, or mentioning individual successes during monthly meetings.

4. days off (outside annual leave)

Our survey showed that work/life balance is the second most important factor for people evaluating potential employers, after salary and benefits. Employees with a good work/life balance are more likely to feel happy and engaged in their jobs, which is good not only for the individual, but for the business in the long term.

One way to help your people achieve a better balance between their work and home lives is by offering occasional bonus days off, possibly as a reward for outstanding performance or for going above and beyond the requirements of their role.

5. themed days

Celebrating occasions and hosting fun, informal events in the workplace can be a good way to reward your employees, boost morale and strengthen relationships between co-workers. This will contribute to a positive work atmosphere, which 55% of respondents to our survey cited as an important consideration for them.

There are many events throughout the year you could invite your workforce to celebrate, such as International Picnic Day, which could be marked by people eating their lunch outdoors in the nearest green space. There's even a Leave the Office Earlier Day.

If you are experiencing a high turnover rate, download our guide with our top retention strategies.

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