Low-Cost Employee Motivation

Some things stand the test of time. One example is a December 2006 article called, 20 Low-Cost Employee Perks, from Entrepreneur.com. Here's some of what it says [and some comments from me]:

• Family days. For those times when the kids have a half day of school or a snow day, family days allow employees to take a day off without having to use up vacation or sick days. [Don't forget that life outside of the job - theirs, or yours!]
• Computer discounts. Buying in bulk typically allows a business to get good prices on computers and peripherals. [And how about extending the savings to employee' friends and families so they can benefit, too?]
• Movie days. A group movie outing or free movie passes can be a pleasant perk. For the sake of variety, you might also consider an outing to see a community theater group. [I've given packs of movie passes to employees' spouses as a thanks for, and in recognition of, them letting their significant others work all those extra hours.]
• Free car washes. The latest in "express exterior" car washes costs around $5 per wash, meaning for $100, you could give 20 employees a shiny car every few months.
• Continental breakfasts. They say there’s no such thing as a free lunch, so serve a free breakfast once or twice a week. Bagels, muffins, coffee and similar fare make for a nice way to start the day. [Discount coupons at the local coffee shop is a nice touch, too.]

What are some of the things you do to treat your employees right?