- Cross-train employees on job duties other employees do so you have a deeper bench of knowledge to pull from.
- Consider reimbursing for professional memberships or allowing employees to attend professional association events.
- Bring in an instructor who can teach self-defense.
- Have on-site fitness yoga classes.
- Encourage employees whose first language is not English to take English as a second language or accent reduction classes.
- Send employees to learn a foreign language.
- Bring in a teacher for CPR and first aid training.
General Business
12 Low-Cost Employee Perks for Fun & High Performance
It is always a good idea to help employees stay motivated, and there are many things you can do besides the traditional cash bonus. Here are twelve ideas that cost little, yet go a long way with employees, contractors, and other business associates.
1. Compressed workweek.
Employees love getting Friday afternoons off, or even a full day a week. Providing weekday time off cuts absenteeism since the employee has a window to run errands that need to be done during business hours.
2. Social activities.
Create social events that become a tradition in your company. The employees will look forward to them. If you are not sure what to do, consider the hobbies of your employees, plan an event based on a anniversary, or simply have a meal out.
A business owner who offers training classes can have movie showings in their training rooms complete with popcorn on Wednesday evenings. The cost of the movie and popcorn is minimal compared to the fun everyone will have.
3. Telecommute part-time.
If possible, consider allowing employees to work from home one day a week. They love the flexibility, often get more done without constant interruptions, and save road time.
4. Customized recognition.
Every employee likes to be recognized for a job well done, but each may differ in exactly how the recognition is expressed. Instead of guessing, ask at the time the employee is onboarded whether they prefer gift certificates, time off, sports event tickets, cash, or public recognition.
5. Bring a child to work.
Last-minute emergencies can come up regarding child care, and the question is whether the employer can help out. Create a policy around when employees can bring little ones to work. You might also want to have a list of childcare and/or eldercare referral services handy.
6. Education.
Education is always a great perk. Here are some ideas along those lines: