Virtual Incentives described rewards as one element of an employee retention plan in guidance published on August 16, 2018. The company began with pay and benefits, arguing that recognition should accompany competitive employment conditions.

For rewards, it suggested acknowledging milestones and extra effort with frequent, relevant incentives. Its examples included virtual cards and a choice-based gift card offering so employees could select a brand they preferred.

The guidance also addressed career development and communication about progression. Virtual Incentives advised employers to give staff a clearer view of future opportunities rather than relying only on loyalty to the organisation.

Flexible schedules and remote working were discussed as additional considerations, alongside flexibility in reward format. Those recommendations reflected the provider’s perspective in 2018 rather than a current assessment of a particular employer’s arrangements.

Finally, the company recommended asking existing employees why they stay and providing ways to offer feedback before an exit interview. The article did not report a measured retention improvement for its own reward programmes.