Virtual Incentives has outlined how employee rewards catalogs can accommodate recipients who value simple navigation, familiar products and the option to choose something for their household.

Its February 18, 2025 guide uses Convenience Chloe, an expressly fictional employee persona, to explore decisions facing recognition program operators. Written by employee engagement practice lead Alex Rogow, the article contrasts this persona with other illustrative recipients whose priorities differ.

The company argues that a catalog should allow users to find relevant merchandise without an unnecessarily complicated redemption process. Clear categories, effective search and straightforward steps to claim a reward are central to that approach.

The examples distinguish between immediate purchases and longer-term saving. A recipient might select a smaller item soon after earning points or accumulate a balance for a larger product, such as kitchen equipment or a barbecue. Favorites and notifications when a points balance reaches the required level can support those different patterns.

Family use is another consideration. Virtual Incentives describes employees choosing rewards to share with partners or children, making household interests relevant to merchandise selection alongside individual preferences.

The guide places merchandise within a broader rewards mix that includes gift cards. It recommends accommodating these preferences through the catalog and redemption experience, rather than assuming every employee values the same incentive.

For administrators, the company proposes using observed reward preferences to inform recommendations and communications. The fictional example illustrates catalog design decisions and the different motivations a recognition program may need to accommodate.