Here are some of the most common mistakes I’ve seen employers make in implementing a safety rewards system:

1. Using a one-size-fits-all approach. Rewards and motivation must be personalized as much as possible.
2. Letting others select the rewards. You need input from the recipient to determine which rewards will actually motivate.
3. Being locked into one reward system. You need to be open to trying different things.
4. The “but” trap, i.e., using the process of handing out the reward as an occasion to deliver criticism. (“You’ve earned this reward, BUT. . .”)
5. Turning rewards into a competition. Rewards should unite workers not pit them against each other. Employee of the Month! How totally stupid of an idea is that? I’ll tell you next week.

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