Factors to Keep in Mind When Implementing a Total Rewards Program

Written by Salary.com Staff
April 4, 2024
Factors to Keep in Mind When Implementing a Total Rewards Program

worldwide benefits and rewards for employees. The fix for this is using a mix of global and local strategies.

Right now, the only effective way to handle employee benefits worldwide is by using a total reward system. This platform makes things consistent, cuts down on paperwork, makes it easier for workers to access their benefits, and encourages more people to sign up for benefits by letting them enroll digitally.

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Why Use Total Rewards System?

Setting up a total rewards system for pay and benefits is important for attracting, retaining, and keeping good workers happy who are in high demand, especially when there are few people available to hire.

  • Attract New Employees

Showing off all your rewards in job ads will make your job openings more interesting to people looking for work. When they see what you have to offer, they can decide whether they want to work for your company or not. By revealing all your benefits, you will attract better candidates.

  • Keep Employees Around

Giving your workers benefits, extras, and assistance they need helps you keep them working for you longer, which means less turnover. Offering different benefits and informing your workers about them can make them happier with their jobs.

Employees who feel taken care of will want to stay with your company longer.

  • Make Employees More Involved

Offering various benefits and extras encourages your workers to do better at their jobs. When they feel valued by your company, they will work harder to help you meet your goals. A team that is involved in their work makes a happier work environment.

Employee involvement helps make the company do better because workers will focus more on the goals of the company.

Factors to Consider in Total Rewards System

Are you thinking about starting a total rewards system at your company? Here are some important things to consider.

  • Pick the Right Benefits and Perks

When choosing what benefits and extras to give your workers, you must offer the ones they actually want. One good way to start is by asking your workers what rewards matter most to them. You can check what other companies in your industry and area usually offer as well.

A survey found that the benefits most workers want are:

  • Health benefits like health insurance
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Retirement savings plans
  • Flexibility with work hours
  • Dental insurance
  • Paid leave for family time
  • Mental health support
  • Vision insurance
  • Opportunities for learning and growth

Health benefits were the most popular, with 92% of companies giving them, and 87% of workers saying they are important.

  • Be Flexible with Your Rewards

Just like with benefits, your rewards must fit what your workers want. Things change over time, and so your rewards must adapt as well. It is best to customize rewards for each worker.

Flexible rewards make it easier to adapt to changes and give workers what they need without making things hard to manage.

One way to do this is by letting workers do their jobs from home or have flexible schedules. This helps them balance work and personal life better.

  • Keep Up with the Trend

The job market changes fast, and so do what workers want. Instead of sticking to the same old rewards, keep an eye on what other companies are doing. Do some research on what benefits and pay are popular to make sure you are not falling behind.

  • Ask Your Workers for Feedback

Once you have set up your rewards program, it is important to see whether it is working or not. When workers do not find it valuable, they may leave.

Ask your workers what they think about the program. Use their feedback to make changes. You can observe how many workers are leaving to see whether your program is helping keep them around.

Making Sure Your Pay & Rewards Plans Work

A good pay plan must bring in good people, get the best out of them, and make them want to stay. It must reward good work overtime as well.

Rewards are not just about money – they are about keeping people motivated and happy. They must include both monetary and non-monetary benefits.

The right mix can include base pay, bonuses, and long-term rewards. But these plans must match your business goals and needs.

Short-term bonuses encourage employees to meet immediate goals. Long-term rewards encourage them to stick around and help the business grow.

Peer recognition is when employees praise each other's work, helping keep everyone motivated.

Salary benefits can include childcare or flexible working hours.

Other rewards can be extra time off, help with studying, or health programs.

Total rewards are not just about money. They are about the whole work experience, including a positive environment and opportunities for growth.

Unlocking the Value of Your Rewards: The Importance of Communication

Companies spend a lot of time creating great rewards programs, but their true power comes from how well employees understand and appreciate them. This is where good communication plays a vital role. It is not only about telling employees what benefits they have, but making sure they understand and value them.

Why Communication Matters

  • Clarity reduces confusion: When employees do not understand their rewards, they may feel like they are missing out or getting a raw deal. Clear communication prevents this and keeps everyone happy and engaged.
  • Honesty builds trust: Being open about how rewards are designed and why they are offered shows respect for employees. This builds trust and loyalty to the company.
  • Knowledge empowers: When employees know exactly what rewards they are getting, they can make smart decisions about their careers and finances. This makes them feel more valued and committed to the company's success.

The Communication Plan

  • Keep it simple: Use plain language and avoid confusing jargon. Make sure everyone can easily understand what you are saying.
  • Show value: Instead of only listing benefits, explain how they contribute to employees' overall well-being. Make it personal and relatable.
  • Listen and improve: Encourage employees to share their thoughts and concerns. Use their feedback to make your communication better over time.

The Benefits of Good Communication

  • Happier employees: When people understand and appreciate their rewards, they are more likely to be engaged and productive at work.
  • Better talent retention: A well-communicated rewards program attracts top talent and keeps them around longer, saving money on hiring and training new employees.
  • Stronger employer reputation: Clear communication about rewards shows that you care about your employees, making your company more attractive to job seekers.

Remember, communication is not only a one-time thing. Keep talking to your employees regularly to keep them informed and engaged. Good communication makes a big difference in how your rewards program is perceived and valued by your team.

In conclusion, employees look for more than just a yearly raise. To keep them happy, companies must find ways to reward their efforts. By offering a complete package of rewards, you can make your employees feel valued, leading to happier workers who are more likely to stick around for the long haul.

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