A common symbol for incentives is the carrot-- you dangle it just beyond the reach of a stubborn donkey to make him pull a cart. This, of course, works best when the donkey gets a taste of the carrot.

The difference between a good incentive program and a great incentive program is the amenities … the extra attention to detail, consistent adherence to higher standards and, especially, conscientious participant care. Whether first-timer or veteran, to be totally effective every incentive program participant needs to be comfortable and confident in all phases of the program. They need to fully understand the program intricacies and often need additional assurance, guidance and personal attention.

You give up playing in a weekend golf tournament in order to entertain a visiting potential new customer. On Monday morning you find a thank you note from the boss with either a dozen golf balls or a twenty-dollar bill. Which do you think has the greater effect?