Call Center Tip: Employee Rewards

By Mike Aoki

In honor of International Customer Service Week, here is another tip:   If you are looking for free or inexpensive ways to reward your call center agents, pick up a copy of the book, “1,001 Ways to Reward Employees” by Bob Nelson. It’s available at Amazon.com and most bookstores.

When I was the call center training manager at Telus Mobility a few years ago, I loved using ideas from this book. It’s filled with inventive ways to reward employees. Examples include giving out movie passes, small gifts and food treats.

Obviously, small treats like this aren’t meant to replace core motivators such as salary, benefits and career growth. But, it does create a fun atmosphere for your call center agents. It also shows your appreciation for all their hard work.

© 2009 Reflective Keynotes Inc., Toronto, Canada

Related tips:
This article gives 10 Tips for Handling Irate Callers. This related story shows how to train the Generation Y (less than 30 years old) employees in your call center. Here is the link to a list of some popular call center training programs.

Leadership: Motivational Award Ideas

Here are three motivational award ideas for your sales or call center team (from my “Secrets of Successful Coaching” seminars):

1. “Catch someone doing something great” and give them a recognition certificate i.e. “Best accessories salesperson” during a staff meeting.
2. Present awards for “Most improved” performer, “Best <product> salesperson” or “Outstanding customer service.” The awards can be public recognition; thank you notes, candy, movie passes or company branded items like mugs or caps.
3. Establish a “Wall of Fame” in your staff room where pictures of top performers are posted. Beneath their photo, have them share their best sales or customer service tip.

What ideas have you used to motivate your team? I’d love to hear your motivational success stories. Please click on the “Comments” tab (below) to share your motivational ideas.