Rewards should stand for something.
When you look at your engagement ring or wedding band, what do you see? A ring? Or the love of your life?
We live in a society of symbols. When you give an award, try to attach some symbolism to it. It will make a huge difference in the value of the award years from now. For example, we know of a company that gives a charm every year at the annual sales retreat. Employees and spouses wear the charm with great pride to show how many trips they have been on and to remind them of the great memories associated with each trip. The charms have power.
Symbolism—it’s the difference between another “thing” and a lasting memory.