Employee Referral Bonus Examples: 10 Rewards That Drive Quality Referrals

Often you don’t need to offer a reward for employee referrals.

Studies have shown that people recommend for emotional and altruistic reasons, such as helping a friend or making their organisation a better place to work.

Also, incentives can be counterproductive as they may encourage unsuitable referrals for the sake of money.

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List of the Best Employee Referral Reward Ideas:

1. Monetary incentives: Strike a balance between motivating employees and avoiding excessive rewards.
2. Exclusive event tickets: Provide opportunities for employees to attend sought-after events, such as front-row seats at a game, VIP access to a sold-out concert, or movie tickets for a premiere. Tailor the rewards to their interests.
3. Culinary delights: Recognise the power of dining experiences by offering reservations at popular restaurants or providing discounted/complimentary meals.
4. Additional time off: Offer extra days off as a way to reward and motivate employees for their efforts, whilst giving them some rest and relaxation.
5. Travel experiences: Encourage employees who love to travel by travel vouchers so they can enjoy a trip with their family or friends.
6. Relaxation and wellness: Provide spa vouchers or access to a gym or personal workout sessions.
7. Adventurous pursuits: Appeal to adrenaline enthusiasts by offering thrilling experiences like paragliding, hot air balloon rides, adventure park visits, or water park passes.
8. Charitable contributions: Make donations on their behalf, demonstrating appreciation for their values, and also removing any perceived bribery.
9. Social recognition: Celebrate referrals by providing tangible recognition, such as branded T-shirts, thank-you signs, company newsletter features etc.
10. Department competitions: Foster a sense of healthy competition by organising contests among departments, with rewards for the winning team. The specific rewards could be tailored based on the department's preferences or goals.

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Additional Resources

• Recruitment Book: The Secrets of Great Recruitment - How to Recruitment Great Employees.
• Downloadable PDF guide; Simple Steps to Create a Powerful Employee Referral Program.
• Downloadable script; Introducing Yourself to a Referred Applicant
• Article; Employee Referral Schemes: The Secret Weapon in Your Hiring Arsenal?
• Article; Employee Referrals: An Overview of Using Networks for Talent Acquisition.
• Article; How to Contact a Referred Applicant.
• Article; Employee Referral Policy Template.
• Article: Employee Referral Scheme: Announcement Email: Why Your Next Hire May be Just an Email Away.
• Article; Employee Referral Scheme: Email Announcing New Job.
• Article; Employee Referral Scheme: Email Conacting Referred Applicant.
• Article; Advantages & Disadvantages of Using Employee Referrals for Recruiting Staff.