It's time to Celebrate!

Ideas for Long-Service Awards: Celebrating Loyalty and Inspiring Long-Term Commitment.

In a world of shifting workplace dynamics, long-service awards are a powerful way to acknowledge the enduring relationship between employee and employer. It's no wonder that 63% of UK companies use years of service award programmes—they're proven to boost morale and promote a culture where employees feel valued.

However, evolving with the times is essential to get the most out of your long-service award strategy.? Let's take a moment to explore the history of service awards.

What are long-service awards?

Long-Service awards commemorate significant milestones in an employee's tenure, fostering a sense of loyalty and commitment. Traditionally, these milestones focused on "long service," starting at the 5-year mark and increasing in 5- or 10-year intervals.

BI WORLDWIDE research shows an average tenure of 4.8 years, but only 2.6 years for millennials, suggesting decreased loyalty. This trend, supported by OECD and EU labor data, highlights the need to adapt employee engagement strategies.

Currently, only 27% of organizations reward employees for 1-3 years of service. This is a missed opportunity.

A Brief History of Long-Service Awards

Service awards are steeped in tradition, evolving alongside workplace culture:

• 1930s-40s:?Emblematic Period (lapel pins, etc.)
• 1950s-60s:?Certificates gained popularity
• 1970s-80s:?Heirlooms (watches, crystal)
• 1990s-2000s:??The internet revolutionised the process, paving the way for social recognition.
• 2010s-Now:??Mobile technology dominates

The Power of Long-Service Awards: Backed by Data

• Retention Boost:?Organisations need to get serious about retention – over 22% of workers aged 20 and older had just one year or less of tenure in 2022! Service awards, when done well, increase the desire to stay.
• Engagement & Happiness:??Employees who receive frequent recognition are happier, more committed, and perform better. In fact, Gallup found they're 5x as likely to be connected to company culture and 4x as likely to be engaged.

Modernising Your Service Awards for Maximum Impact

Here's how to make your long-service awards truly resonate:

• Choice Matters:??Give employees a chance to select gifts that fit their lifestyle, from unique experiences to points-based rewards systems.
• Go Social:??Leverage technology to amplify celebration! Allow colleagues, managers, and even family to contribute messages of appreciation.
• Involve All Leaders:?Employees feel more valued when managers actively celebrate milestones. Train and encourage your leadership team to play a key role.
• Consider Early Recognition:??With shorter average tenures, celebrating milestones earlier in an employee's career builds loyalty faster. Even small awards after the first few months can make a difference!
• Global Sensitivity:??Tailor rewards and approaches to fit different cultural expectations worldwide.
• Don't Forget Deskless Workers:?These employees are often underserved by recognition programmes. Ensure there are ways for everyone to participate, whether on their phones or through dedicated kiosks.

Key Takeaway

Long-service awards are more than just a nice gesture—they're a strategic tool for building a strong, dedicated workforce. By evolving your approach to recognising loyalty from day one and offering meaningful rewards, you'll inspire your employees and cultivate a workplace where everyone feels truly appreciated.

I'd love to hear how your company celebrates long-service milestones and what was the most impactful service award you have recieved?

Share your ideas in the comments.

To read the full blog and learn more about how to elevating your Long-Service Award Programme, visit BI WORLDWIDE EMEA now.