It's the million-plus-copy bestseller that every manager and employer needs, whether they supervise one employee or one thousand. Because what really motivates people to perform are thoughtful, personal gestures that signify real appreciation--and don't necessarily cost money.

A chock-full guide to rewards of every conceivable type for every conceivable situation, 1001 Ways to Reward Employees offers over 1000 innovative ideas beyond the expected raise or promotion. They range from a simple, unexpected "thank you" to Ford Motor Company's use of employees in commercials to programs such as Home Depot's Employee-of-the-Month Award--honorees receive $100 and a merit badge, and get their names engraved on a plaque.

In researching the book, author Bob Nelson interviewed supervisors at all types and sizes of businesses in all parts of the country, finding inventive and effective employee rewards in every sector. No matter how many people you manage, you will find lots of ideas that will work for you and your business.

This book is a godsend to every well-intentioned manager or frustrated employee. It makes a compelling case that recognition, rewards, and positive reinforcement all do work and that they can work for you. --Ken Blanchard, from the Foreword

"This book should be in the top drawer of every manager's desk!" — Karl Albrecht, co-author of Service America

Whether you manage a department, oversee a division, lead a company--or run a family business with just one employee--there's an essential principle to follow that's too often overlooked: What most motivates the people who work for you is recognition.

A chock-full guide to rewards of every conceivable type for every conceivable situation, 1001 WAYS TO REWARD EMPLOYEES polls the whole of the American business community, finding innovative ideas in every corner; and from the spontaneous gesture of praise to formal company-wide programs, it presents hundreds of ways to say thank you to the people who truly deserve it.

Empowerment. Self-Directed Teams. Continuos Improvement. Achievement Awards. Case Studies. It would be impossible to do justice to the enormous wealth of ideas that Bob Nelson, in his remarkable 1001 WAYS series, has elucidated for both employers and employees. This bestselling series points to a new way of looking at employee-employer relations, offering practical advice and evidence along side indispensable and clear business theory. Also in the series: 1001 WAYS TO ENERGIZE EMPLOYEES, a practical handbook chock full of ideas for increasing employee involvement and enthusiasm; 1001 WAYS EMPLOYEES CAN TAKE INITIATIVE, turning its voice towards the ambitious employee who wants to develop self-leadership, set goals, and build a team; and the 365 WAYS TO MANAGE BETTER Page-a-Day Perpetual Calendar, with daily advice for the consciencious manager.

1,062,000 copies in print

Bob Nelson, Ph.D., is president of Nelson Motivation, Inc., a founding board member of the National Association for Employee Recognition (NAER), and bestselling author, including the 1001 Ways series and Managing for Dummies. Dr. Nelson lives and works in San Diego, California.

Foreword by Ken Blanchard

Preface

Introduction

Informal Rewards

Awards for Specific Achievements and Activities

Formal Rewards