Pictured above: Justine Vaughan, Founder and Director of Triangle HR

A local HR consultancy is reminding employers that pay rises aren't the only way to reward employees' efforts and contribution to their business.  

With the challenging economic climate forcing many employers to freeze wages and rule out annual salary increases, Shropshire-based Triangle HR is urging local businesses to think creatively and come up with alternative incentives to recognise and encourage excellent performance.

Founder and Director of Triangle HR, Justine Vaughan, explained: "With April being the start of the new financial year for many local employers, some employees will be looking to negotiate salary increases and bonuses as a reward for their hard work. While many businesses, especially smaller operations, aren't yet in the position to offer such pay rises, there are still plenty of other ways to boost staff morale and thank employees for their efforts."

Justine highlights the growing number of companies that have introduced 'Employee of the Month' schemes and other similar initiatives, where staff receive one-off prizes such as gift vouchers or gadgets to recognise their success. Other popular moves she recommends include giving managers the discretion to award extra holidays or paid leave; encouraging more flexible working practices on issues such as home-working, office hours and dress codes; and staging regular work events and activities.

"With options such as offering extra holidays or working from home as a reward, it's not so much about giving a financial incentive, but about promoting a sense of well-being. Employees feel refreshed, are better placed to tackle tricky 'work-life balance' issues, and come to work with a positive mind-set, leading to increased productivity and a happier working environment. It is also worth employers considering whether any of their staff could be put forward for any work-placed training schemes or qualifications - not only do workers get to enhance their skills and boost their long-term career prospects, but the company also benefits from a more qualified workforce.

"Similarly, if it's possible to replace old equipment, such as office computers or phones, with newer, better versions, not only do employees see the benefits and feel part of something with a positive future, but employers reap the rewards from increased productivity and efficiency," Justine Vaughan added.

"We're actually in the process of getting a growing number of local businesses on board to launch a dedicated package of additional employee benefits that employers will be able to access through Triangle HR. I'd urge any Shropshire-based company interested in getting involved with the scheme, either as an employer who would like to enhance their employee 'package' at no additional cost, or as a business owner that would like to offer its services or products to thousands of local employers through Triangle HR, to get in touch," Justine concluded.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics for the final three months of 2010 revealed the average worker received an annual wage rise of just 1.8%, well below the rate of inflation and a real-terms cut in income.

Triangle HR offers a full consultancy service covering every area of employment and provides a professional, cost-effective solution for businesses across the region. For further information please call 01743 453170, 07801 500462, visit www.trianglehr.co.uk or email Justine on justine@trianglehr.co.uk.