Invest in Your Employees with Incentive Travel

Numerous companies view incentive travel as another organizational expense; however, this perception does not appropriately portray the true significance of the approach. These programs supply an exciting, motivating way for investing in your employees to receive improved productivity and build loyalty. Just as with a college trust fund, this approach is a way to invest in the future of your business by creating a productive environment where employees feel valued. Staffs who feel important are further encouraged to work toward company goals. Trip rewards increase the bottom line of an organization and offer a great investment return when they are planned appropriately.

The environment within a workplace today is far more competitive than it once used to be. Staffs are competing against each other in a negative manner to receive recognition, promotions, and additional benefits. Businesses within specific industries rival to gain the best employees from their competitors. Incentive travel creates an environment for positive competition where everyone works together to achieve determined objectives while striving to receive something they desire. These reward programs also increase employee attitudes regarding the organization thus improving your chances of retaining the best staff members rather than losing them to the competition.

Why Consider Employing a Professional Service?

A professional service can ease the cost of this endeavor by assisting with destination selection, accommodation booking, itinerary planning, and execution. Incentive travel services help you to create the best program at a set price. This makes it easy to maintain an affordable yet effective program for continued investment in a quality staff. These packages are not just a getaway that has been put together on the fly. Professionals create a plan with:

  • Uniqueness to the Business
  • Focus on the Determined Goal
  • Incorporated Work Elements

With the right expertise, knowledge, and experience, a professional has the ability to make any plan a true work of art. Each incentive travel package is unique in regards to the business and goals being achieved. Service providers can include a meeting or charitable event to ensure the trip has the elements necessary to make such a reward justifiable. Having this assistance allows you to create the best plan while freeing up time to focus on the organization.

Incentive travel is a motivational concept that has been used in the business setting for centuries; however, many companies do not know the best route or how to get the ball rolling. An extensive selection of program types makes determining the best choice for a particular industry or business objective difficult. You can choose from these categories among others:

  • Individual
  • Group
  • Team
  • Company-Wide Performance
  • Sales Incentive
  • Training Programs
  • Customer Loyalty
  • Product Launch

Choosing the perfect destination, great accommodations, and a rewarding itinerary are the professional’s responsibility. An organization can take their time reinforcing the goals at hand by promoting the program to personnel while being able to focus on core functions. Professionals are available to help develop the most optimal package for improved motivation and goal achievement. Incentive travel is one of the most successful ways to get more out of your staff and the right help guarantees the desired results are received.

Ingredients of a Successful Incentive Travel Program

Incentive travel programs have been a long used motivational tool by businesses to inspire the accomplishment of set objectives by offering achievers a unique reward. These goal centered packages are meant to recognize earners by supplying a trip to a one of a kind destination.  What exactly drives an implemented package to be effective in this setting? Every program is different in its own sense; however, certain core elements have been noted as essential:

  • Recipient and Goal Selection
  • Communication
  • Package Design
  • Executive/Manager Reinforcement
  • Detailed Record Keeping

Selection of individuals to receive the reward must be based on the determined business objectives. The program along with each participant’s progress must be communicated in a consistent manner. This communication should be used to generate anticipation about the upcoming reward for continued motivation. A program has to include a desirable destination, a good itinerary, and include collaborative sessions to maintain excitement. All upper level administrators should reinforce the organizations overall commitment to the award. Detailed records allow each participants productivity to be properly tracked to determine who will be given the award.

What Additional Event Aspects Maximize Success?

A company cannot simply throw together a set of objectives, a trip package, and then announce it briefly in a morning meeting. These incentive travel approaches require a little more finesse to ensure the desired results are received. An event should also recognize earners, supply continued motivation, offer networking possibilities, and nurture collaboration. A program does not stop after earners have been determined, but instead continues to serve as a motivational tool beyond this point. Earners should be recognized and inspired to continue putting forth their maximum effort. Networking opportunities with key administrators are important for building beneficial relationships within the organization. Earners can collaborate with higher level managers or additional earners to generate stunning ideas, create best practices, or inspire others to work toward future goals.

Studies have shown this inspirational approach to have an impact on participants long after their timeline has expired. Incentive travel programs offer more value to individuals than a coffee mug or small monetary reward. The organization, receiving individuals, chosen location, and professionals assisting with the package receive benefits from this implementation. Companies are supplied specific advantages when a package is carried out correctly:

  • Relationship Building Opportunities
  • Motivated Employees
  • Improved Organizational Culture
  • Positive Work Environment
  • Employee Gratitude
  • Better Retention
  • Desired Behaviors

It is the consistent benefits supplied by incentive travel that makes it appealing to an organization. A program must be put together correctly, properly communicated, and continuously promoted to maintain motivation throughout goal achievement. This creates a lasting effect on all involved employees where work ethic is significantly boosted. Those receiving the reward have the opportunity to not only see an outstanding destination, but also network with key personnel within the company for future success. They serve as an inspirational tool to anyone who did not earn the reward. Awarded persons are encouraged by future incentive travel programs and influenced by the received trip for an extended period of time after completion. The above items make a strong program where an organization can meet objectives and create a highly motivated, successful staff.

incentive travel programs

Incentive Travel – Making Work FUN!

incentive travel programsIt is easy to focus on the organizational benefits received from an incentive travel award such as better productivity or increased sales; however, another important positive effect is also provided by a well-planned program. A striking incentive reward drives job performance to a whole new level because it provides individuals with the opportunity of a unique experience. While the end result is essential, an organization begins to gain advantages prior to reaching this portion of the event. Incentive travel encourages improved staff involvement, creates a competitive environment, and promotes hard work throughout an organization. The fostered competitiveness feeds the urge for additional effort in a healthy manner. An organization typically sees these changes as a program progresses:

  • Improved Attitudes
  • Promptness
  • Teamwork
  • Boosted Morale
  • Heightened Involvement
  • Pride in Work

Why are employees so motivated when this opportunity is presented in the workplace? Location and value are the two largest inspirational factors being put on the table by trip incentives. Thousands of people dream about visiting places like Rome or Paris; however, they never receive the opportunity to make these trips happen. Individuals place a value on an incentive travel package and strive hard to reach the goals set for attainment. Cash rewards or small gifts simply do not have the same effect on an individual as the possible chance of a getaway. A good promotional campaign regarding the program is essential for continued results as employees strive to complete objectives.

These incentive packages can be used to create a fun work atmosphere where everyone gets wrapped up in the excitement.  Employees are not tense, wake up excited about their day, and bring a positive attitude with them to the workplace. Most individuals show increased pride in their daily work. Every person is on time, ready to do their job, and delivers quality labor to the organization. This creates a specific type of environment where everyone is driven, positive, and engaged.

Incentive travel can be used to add a little fun to each day as the program is being administered. Here are a few things companies are doing to increase excitement and create a fun atmosphere:

  • Themed Snack Tables
  • Posters
  • Drawings
  • Games
  • Decorations
  • Promotional Videos
  • Destination Supportive Emails
  • Intermediary Prize Giveaways

These efforts create continual excitement among employees and supply further motivation toward meeting program goals. Small efforts to make the workplace increasingly fun do not hinder productivity or prevent responsibility completion. They foster the improvements necessary for success while supplying the hardest workers a significant prize. The above are used to heighten morale as employees put out the extra effort. A professional service can assist with the planning of a program and supply ways to continually encourage employees for the duration of the event. They are essential when a company does not have the experience, resources, or time to set the incentive up. Experts ensure all details are covered, deliver a desirable destination, and keep a company within their determined budget. Numerous additional resources can be found online for providing continued encouragement through workplace fun. This type of atmosphere can boost program success tenfold and is important when employees are being pushed to the limit.

Vancouver, BC Canada: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination

vancouver bc canadaIndividuals can find Vancouver, BC Canada next to the immense body of water known as the Strait of Georgia off the Detroit de Georgie. The location serves as a coastal seaport for mainland British Columbia, Canada. It ranks only eighth in size among all Canadian cities, but third among the countries metropolitan areas. As one of the most ethnically diverse cities, Vancouver was originally called Gastown. It began forming in 1867 when a logging mill and tavern were established. The name transitioned to Granville with Vancouver becoming prevalent after a railhead was placed in the city.

The railway opened up trade relations between the Orient, London, and Eastern Canada toward the end of the 1800’s. Today, the port is one of the most active in the country and is a diverse port in the Americas. Forestry has always been a big industry in the region; however, tourism has emerged as a close second. Film studios reside in the region and have made it an important production location next to places such as Los Angeles. This area offers the warmest climate of Canadian cities with dry summers delivering minimal participation. Rain or snow can be experienced more frequently from the months of November to March.

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach resides at the southern edge of the West End portion of the neighborhood. It is a scenic coastal line where some of the most stunning sunsets can be taken in. The changing color of the skyline creates a beautiful view of the Inuksuk statue landmark by peoples of this region.

Indian Arm

A glacial fjord found nearby the city of Vancouver is a destination delivering kayaking excursions and cruise tours. The setting includes deep blue waters, mountain wildlife, and a more rugged atmosphere. This fjord, formed at the time of the last Ice Age, extends from the Burrard Inlet to the mountain wilderness with waterfalls such as Granite Falls being part of the scenery. Indian Arm Provincial Park is where many tourists participate in wilderness activities.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

Located not far from downtown Vancouver, this extensive display of plant life covers approximately fifty-five acres. Tree-lined paths, flower gardens of vast contrasting colors, lakes, and mossy woodlands are a few of the sights offered by this plant life sanctuary.  Spring is a good time of the year to visit this attraction; however, autumn brings its own transition of color combinations.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge allows visitors to make their way through the gorgeous Pacific Northwest rainforest. This four-hundred fifty foot creation passes over the Capilano River to provide visitors with a one of a kind view of the treetops as it leads into a twenty-seven acre natural rainforest park.

Vancouver, BC Canada can provide countless wonders to individuals wanting a location with city perks yet a little closer to nature. Grouse Mountain, Lighthouse Park, Nitobe Memorial Garden, Fraiche Restaurant, and Stanley Park are among highly recommended activities. Visitors receive unique sites such as the Indian Arm fjord mixed with relaxing activities and beautiful scenery.

Corfu Island, Greece: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination

Corfu Island, Greece ranks second in size among all Ionian isles with a history dating back as far as Greek mythology. The name links to the god of the sea, Poseidon, as well as one of the most important rivers Asopos. It is referred to as Kerkyra in ancient Greek in relation to Asopos daughter, Korkyra, who Poseidon abducted to marry. They arrived on this island, were married, and he gave it her name, which later grew into Kerkyra. Local inhabitants are called Phaiakes, Phaeacians in modern day, after their conceived child Phaiakes. Today, Corfu Island displays its history in the form of castles still standing throughout the area. Its capital is often referred to as the “castle city” due to it being surrounded by two long standing fortresses. Its history is filled with conquests by the Venetians, Turkish, and British.

Old Town

Corfu city can be found inland at the broadest part of the island and is separated from other parts of the area by an artificial moat that is now used as a marina. Old town developed within a fortified location meaning much of the traditional designs from previous times was preserved. The streets are very narrow, paved with cobblestones, and create a labyrinth within the city. A large portion of the pathways are too small for vehicles to travel on. The square holds an extensive selection of restaurants and cafés where individuals can relaxingly take in the scenery.

Palaio Frourio

This Venetian fortress, constructed on a man-made inlet, includes fortifications around its perimeter. A few sections have begun to erode over time; however, a restoration was completed on the interior for cultural events to be held at this location. Events such as concerts and historical reproductions can be seen during various times of the year with modern effects such as lighting being part of the entertainment. It is one of many fortresses visitors can explore when touring this destination.

Palaia Anaktora

Located north of the lower square, Palaia Anaktora or “Old Palaces” is a Roman style building complex previously used as a home for the King of Greece and British Governors. Viewable by the public today, the complex delivers a series of halls and buildings where numerous exhibits can be seen. Individuals have the opportunity to view displays in the Museum of Asian Art or take a stroll in the gardens to see stone aquariums surrounded by exotic plants. The gardens provide an exquisite view of the bay while the grounds café presents another art gallery with local and international creations.

Corfu Island, Greece contains a vast array of architectural styles including Italianate, Roman, Venetian, and German creations. Those interested in older style building design have countless wonders to choose from. Individuals can see the “Kaiser Bridge”, the Achilleion, or the city square filled with examples of Italianate architecture. Corfu Island is a distinct cultural area containing multiple sights from older to more modern items. Museums of archaeological, art, financial, historical, and dedicative nature can be found throughout the region. Musical festivities common to the area create a one of a kind atmosphere for everyone who has an opportunity to visit.