The most commonly used reward for motivating employees is a gift card. Gift cards are favored for their flexibility, ease of distribution, and broad appeal. They allow employees to choose something meaningful, making them a popular and effective motivational tool.

Data shows that gift cards are the most popular choice, with 75% of employees preferring them, while other top rewards include bonuses (34%), extra vacation days (23%), and free lunches (23%). This highlights the importance of offering flexible options that let employees choose what’s most meaningful to them.