Zen or Zoom?
What Employee Rewards Say About Your Culture
Some people unwind with yoga and herbal tea. Others prefer the sound of tyres screeching on tarmac.
If you’ve ever tried giving both of them the same reward, you’ll know one thing: it rarely hits the mark.
Employee recognition isn’t about handing out something shiny and hoping it lands. The best rewards speak to how someone works, not just what they’ve achieved. When you match the energy of the reward to the energy of the person, it sticks.
So, what does that actually look like? Let’s break it down.
Give our corporate team a call today on +44 (0) 2393 877130 or email us at corporate@goldenmoments.com to discuss how you can introduce a successful rewards and recognition program with Golden Moments!
Zen: the calm reward experience
The experience Think quiet mornings and digital detox. A yoga retreat or a floatation session offers space, not stimulation.
Who it suits The steady achiever who quietly powers through deadlines. Or the team member who’s always there to support others. They don’t ask for recognition, but they deserve it.
The message it sends You’ve earned rest. You don’t have to keep pushing.
Takeaway - If someone gives calm, consistent energy, reward them with rest - not noise.
Zoom: the high-energy reward experience
The experience Fast-paced and exciting. A supercar driving day or a day at the races gives them something to brag about.
Who it suits The high-energy teammate who loves a quick win. Or the colleague who brings momentum to every project.
The message it sends We see your pace. This reward matches it.
Takeaway For bold personalities, the reward should feel exciting - not quiet.
Why it matters
Generic rewards might tick a box, but personal rewards build trust.
It’s not just about what someone accomplished. It’s about how they did it … and what they value.
Takeaway - Recognition lands best when it mirrors the way someone works, not just the result.
A simple way to choose: reset vs recharge
If you’re unsure which route to take, try this question: Does this person need to slow down or let loose?
Reset rewards offer space and reflection, like a yoga retreat or river cruise. Recharge rewards bring energy and excitement, like a race day or escape room.
Takeaway - Both styles matter — just not for the same person at the same time.
Recognition doesn’t need to be loud. But it does need to feel right.
When you reward someone in a way that fits them, it means more - and lasts longer.
Here at Golden Moments, we can provide you with a range of corporate packages designed to positively impact your relationship with your employees as well improve your customer base and achieve your business goals.
Give our corporate team a call today on +44 (0) 2393 877130 or email us at corporate@goldenmoments.com to discuss how you can introduce a successful rewards and recognition program with Golden Moments!