How to Create Virtual and Hybrid Awards Programs for Remote Employees

Employee awards programs aren't anything new. However, they are becoming increasingly more complicated to manage due to the rise in hybrid and remote workforces. The irony is that they are more needed than ever. One recent study showed that over 90% of leaders felt their virtual workers were disconnected due to isolation. Authentic, impactful recognition programs could help.

The problem is that many award programs that work in traditional, in-person settings don't automatically translate to online environments. Take "employee of the month" parking spots, for instance. They are not relevant for people who commute from the bedroom to a home office. And even if you have a Slack channel dedicated to colleague shoutouts, those shoutouts can get lost amid the noise of daily responsibilities.

Despite these challenges, it's essential to let your employees know that their contributions matter in public ways. Otherwise, you risk them disengaging, leading to quiet quitting and actual resignations.

How can you revamp an ageing corporate awards program or create one from the ground up for your virtual teams? Use the following popular corporate award programs as a starting point for making your own meaningful and effective ways to show appreciation.

1. Hybrid Ceremonies for Remote Recognition

Maybe you like arranging formal "thank you" red-carpet ceremonies. These can be done entirely online via Zoom or in a hybrid capacity. For hybrid-style ceremonies, make sure that your remote employees have the chance to participate fully. This could mean sending them special swag bags and goodie boxes to enjoy during the event.

Try to keep any hybrid awards ceremonies within about the one-hour mark. Check all your technical equipment beforehand and ensure you do all you can to bring your virtual employees into the mix. The last thing you want is your remote workers to feel like they are just watching a Netflix special. You want them to immerse themselves fully at the moment.

2. Live-streamed Events to Engage Remote Employees

A live-streamed event can be a good way to kick off any employee recognition programs you are instituting. During the event, you will describe each program so your entire workforce understands what to expect and, if applicable, how to participate. For example, if you launch a virtual peer-to-peer recognition social bulletin board, you will want everyone to know where it is, how to add coworker kudos and images, etc.

Consider bringing in a speaker to discuss a relevant topic with your remote employees to spice up your live-streamed event. Virtual workers struggle with working from home, such as "turning off." As part of your live-streamed event, give them tips that have been tried and tested. This will make them want to come to more of these events.

3. Prioritizing Employee Wellness Through Recognition Programs

The labor market is still tight, and many workers seek to work for companies that promote healthier habits and lifestyles. As part of your corporate awards programs, reward teams or team members who go above and beyond with unique wellness-driven gifts.

To be sure, "wellness" is a wide-ranging concept and means something different to different people. Request their feedback through anonymous surveys to find out what your remote workforce wants. They may tell you they want the occasional extra PTO. Or they might like generous gift cards to restaurants so they can skip cooking for their households for a night. Once you know their preferences, authorize your managers and supervisors to hand out wellness "awards" to individuals and groups who excel.

4. Recognition Newsletters to Boost Remote Employee Motivation

It might seem quaint or old-fashioned, but starting a monthly recognition newsletter is fine. A newsletter is a great way to call out people who have done well recently. It also allows you to highlight different team members so your remote workers can get to know each other better.

What should be included in your newsletter? Try a section on positive customer feedback and rave reviews. And remember to highlight your employee(s) of the month or quarter. Remember that your newsletter must align with your company's purpose because it comes from a corporate level. That way, it will feel very cohesive and help you foster your desired culture.

Final Takeaways on Remote-Friendly Corporate Awards Programs

Even if you only have a few remote employees, you want to ensure everyone feels included. Consequently, when developing your corporate awards meetings, programs, and initiatives, keep these checklist items in mind:

• Make sure programs are ongoing rather than "one-off" experiences.

• Develop all awards events with the help of at least one virtual staff member so you are getting contributions from all angles.

• Listen and learn to keep improving your methods of expressing gratitude to your people.

Show your employees, wherever they work, that they are vital to the success of your organization. Awards don't have to be big or expensive to be meaningful. But they will only magically happen with your input and energy.

When it comes to remote workforces, recognition is a critical component. That's why it's important to follow the latest trends for designing virtual-friendly corporate awards programs that have impact and meaning.