Blog

IESP members are strongly encouraged to create qualifying content that, when approved, is published on our website. If approved for publication or presentation at an approved industry event, contributors will receive a substantial discount on next year's dues. The content creation guidelines are available on IESP's website.

We are also asking members to help us update the content of the documents we currently have available. We are particularly interested in having members update the documents they helped to create in the past.

The Reward Mix: Pairing Reward Types to the Right Programs 

April 17, 2026

Everyone can feel it now. The ground is shifting all at once. Economic pressure is tightening spend while expectations keep rising. Programs are expected to work globally but still feel local. Engagement is harder to earn, and five generations...

Keep It Simple: How Streamlined Rewards Boost Employee Engagement and Retention 

March 27, 2026

Many organisations start with good intentions when building recognition programs — but end up layering on too many rules, steps, and systems. What should feel inspiring turns into another administrative task...

Dry Promotions: A Quiet Threat to Employee Engagement 

January 12, 2026

At the beginning of every new year, many people dedicate that time for a Dry January, a reset built on restraint. In the workplace, that same month often brings a different kind of austerity: promotions that expand roles without fairly increasing...

Inside the 2025 Incentive Buyer’s Mind: Trends, Risks, and Realities 

September 5, 2025

If 2024 was the year of buzzwords, 2025 is shaping up to be the year buyers start asking for proof. At the 2025 IMA Summit, IESP hosted a Member Meeting breakout discussion that peeled back the curtain on what incentive buyers are actually...

The Rise of AI in B2B Incentive and Recognition Programs 

May 29, 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly pivotal role in transforming B2B incentive and recognition programs. As AI technologies evolve, solution providers are tackling this trend head-on—offering forward-looking thought leadership...

Precision Engagement: The Power of Hyper-Personalization in Incentive and Engagement Programs 

September 26, 2024

Increasing personalization has become a crucial factor in elevating incentive and engagement programs from good to great.

Tomorrow’s Top Trends in Incentive and Reward Programs 

July 25, 2024

As organizations continue to seek innovative ways to motivate their key participants, blockchain emerges as a transformative force of design and execution for reward and incentive programs, which can significantly influence the way programs are desig

Unleashing the Power of Blockchain: 7 Ways It Can Transform Incentive Programs for the Future 

December 26, 2023

As organizations continue to seek innovative ways to motivate their key participants, blockchain emerges as a transformative force of design and execution for reward and incentive programs, which can significantly influence the way programs are desig

Long-term Success Starts with a Successful Incentive Program Rollout 

January 16, 2023

Programs can run for many years, and much of the strategy discussion focuses on long-term goals. While the long-term is important to keep in mind, what about the essential steps in that first key phase - the rollout?

Breaking Down Breakage 

July 26, 2022

Are you someone who typically spends your reward points, or saves them? Loyalty points, often go untouched, even though it seems like there are numerous articles telling us to do so.

Reduce Turnover by Rewarding Employees More Frequently With Digital Gift Cards 

June 14, 2022

A number of studies and surveys show the positive impact expressions of gratitude have on employees’ mental wellbeing and productivity.

Why All Incentive Programs Should Incorporate a Recognition Component 

February 21, 2022

No matter what the tangible award is, the act of recognition allows your achievers to display their achievement (and your appreciation) to their co-workers, friends, family, prospects, clientele, etc.

How to Increase Sales with Self-Selected Incentive Programs 

October 29, 2021

It's no secret that offering incentives to increase sales is a time-tested, effective marketing tactic. That's why so many companies offer both employees and customers incentives to boost their sales, and why so many people are interested in learning