As the workforce recovers from the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies are deciding to have their employees return to their usual work environment. So why is there still a large percentage of people working from home?
Believe it or not, virtual work was not a new concept built around the most recent global crisis. People have been testing out legitimate virtual work since the 1970’s when the idea of “teleworking” was introduced. In 2010, President Barack Obama signed the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010, which requires all federal executive agencies to establish policies for eligible employees to work remotely.
The pandemic merely pushed companies into normalizing remote work, a direction the world was already heading. Working virtually allows companies to save money, and employees report being happy 22% more than workers commuting to the office daily, according to a survey report conducted by Owl labs.
So, How Can Leaders Keep These Workers Motivated Day to Day?
Like any new way of living, unique challenges are presented. The biggest challenge companies face with remote workers is motivation. Without a room full of coworkers to turn to, it can be difficult for employees to feel connected and excited about the projects they are working on.
A few ways companies can motivate their virtual workers regularly are:
- Communicate often with remote workers and offer feedback
- Have a virtual employee of the month
- Weekly check-ins
- Have contests
- Group work assignments
- Team building
- Virtual work parties
- Implement employee monitor software
These small changes are easy ways to help employees feel more connected and heard by their coworkers and management.
Incentive Travel as a Motivator
Along with motivating virtual workers daily, it’s helpful for companies to have something for their employees to work towards or look forward to and motivate them on a larger scale.
Incentive travel programs are trips and experiences virtual workers can earn by meeting quotas or a specific goal set by management. Travel is a luxury many people had taken from them during the pandemic. An incentive travel program could be just what your employees need to motivate them to work harder for their company.
Incentive travel has many benefits for both employees and companies, including:
- Higher productivity
- Stronger team relationships
- Increased sales and profits
- Company loyalty
- Improved employee retention issues
- Encourages healthy competition
If you feel your remote workers are lacking inspiration and the zest for their job, incentive travel is a great way to help solve this. You can plan anything from tours abroad to cruises or keep the travel closer to home. There are many factors to consider when choosing a destination for your incentive trip.
Hiring a professional incentive travel company makes planning an incentive travel program a breeze! At HPM Associates, we have over 37 years of experience planning and organizing company travel programs. We have the industry knowledge and connections to ensure your workers have a safe and enjoyable time connecting and making memories with their coworkers.
Contact us at (305)274-0030 to learn about our services or request a free proposal online!