How the global pandemic helped a software giant reimagine its rewards program
In the wake of a global pandemic, a software giant sought to shake things up for its top performers. Enter streamlinevents, an event planning firm ready to ditch the traditional playbook and craft an incentive program that prioritized flexibility, downtime, and authentic connection. How they handled it earned them a SITE Crystal Award for Excellence in Incentive Travel: Latin America & Caribbean.
The Caribbean island of Nevis served as the backdrop for this reimagined reward, initially planned as a standard group trip. However, the client craved a more personalized experience for its diverse workforce, especially the newer, younger qualifiers eager to connect with leadership without sacrificing leisure time.
Streamlinevents rose to the challenge, curating a smorgasbord of enticing activities while allowing participants to choose their own adventure. A custom-designed travel magazine fueled excitement, offering a tantalizing preview of the island’s hidden gems.
On-site, the unconventional approach continued. An optional dine-around fostered intimate connections among colleagues from around the world, replacing the usual clamor of banquet halls. A thrilling team-based CSR activity, where participants raced across the island in jeeps to gather supplies for local schoolchildren, became the highest-rated experience, proving that meaningful engagement doesn’t require mandatory participation.
The results were astounding. A staggering 97% of attendees expressed satisfaction with the program, and a perfect 100% raved about the evening events. The client’s gamble on more free time and choice paid off handsomely, with motivation soaring and post-event feedback overflowing with praise.
Streamlinevents’ innovative approach demonstrates that the future of incentive travel lies in personalization and flexibility. By empowering employees to design their own experience, companies can create rewards that resonate deeply, fostering loyalty, engagement, and ultimately, driving performance to new heights.
As Anne Gorman of streamlinevents aptly puts it, “We loved the opportunity to do things differently… and give attendees what they want.” This bold experiment in redefining incentive travel proves that sometimes, the most effective reward is the freedom to choose.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
Photo by Omar Martin on Unsplash
