When is the Right Time to Introduce Rewards to Your Recognition Program?

Launching a recognition program without having all the rewards figured out may seem daunting, but there’s no need to worry! At HeyTaco, we actually recommend waiting to add rewards initially. This allows your team to build a habit of gratitude first. Here’s why and how to approach it.

Focus on Building a Habit of Gratitude First

The main reason to launch a recognition program is to help people feel genuinely appreciated and valued. The goal is to cultivate a culture where saying "thank you" becomes second nature. When appreciation is embedded into everyday interactions, it creates a positive, supportive work environment where people feel seen and valued.

Introducing rewards too early, especially monetary ones, can shift the focus from authentic appreciation to a transactional mindset. If rewards are introduced prematurely, there’s a risk that employees may begin expressing gratitude just to earn something in return, rather than because they genuinely appreciate their colleagues’ efforts. This undermines the true spirit of recognition, turning it into a mere exchange rather than a meaningful gesture.

Why HeyTaco Works Without Immediate Rewards

With HeyTaco, recognition is meaningful even without tangible rewards. The platform fosters a sense of community and belonging through features like leaderboards, levels, and hidden encouragements. These elements make the process fun and engaging, encouraging employees to express gratitude because it feels good—not because there’s a prize attached.

The aim is for recognition to be fulfilling in its own right, establishing a culture where gratitude is celebrated and embraced naturally. Public recognition itself becomes a reward, creating a positive cycle of appreciation and encouragement.

When to Introduce Rewards: Timing is Key

So, when should you introduce rewards? At HeyTaco, we recommend waiting a few months after launching your recognition program. This waiting period allows your team to become comfortable with recognizing each other’s efforts and builds a strong foundation of genuine gratitude. It also provides you with valuable insights into how the program is being used and how often recognition occurs.

By delaying the introduction of rewards, you’ll gain a better understanding of how many tacos are in circulation and the overall engagement level. This will help you make informed decisions about the type of rewards to introduce and their appropriate value.

Start Small and Get Creative with Rewards

When you’re ready to introduce rewards, start with non-monetary or team-based incentives. Consider creative options like extra days off, team lunches, or fun team-building activities. These types of rewards reinforce community spirit and shared success without making recognition feel transactional.

Think of your rewards as a "pop-up store"—start with a few options, see how they are received, and adjust as needed. This approach allows for flexibility and ensures that the rewards you offer are meaningful and aligned with your team's culture.

Celebrate, Don’t Incentivize

Remember, rewards are most effective when they serve as a celebration of the culture you’ve built rather than a mere incentive. Used wisely, they can enhance the positive impact of your recognition program, motivating your team while preserving the authentic spirit of appreciation.

Need Help? Reach Out to Us!

If you’re unsure of what types of rewards to introduce or when to do so, HeyTaco is here to help. We can provide guidance and share ideas to ensure your program succeeds and your team stays engaged and motivated.

Conclusion: Build First, Reward Later

By focusing first on creating a strong culture of gratitude and waiting to introduce rewards, you set the foundation for a recognition program that is both meaningful and impactful. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and remember that recognition should always come from the heart—not just for the rewards.