Something as simple as keeping employees informed of the company's standings and its daily activities are a reward in itself. This magnifies how much importance management places with their employees. Information is a powerful object that no one should be deprived of, especially at the workplace. The results of rewarding employees will raise their self-esteem, make them feel important, show them that management cares, and motivate them as well. In addition, the employee will have a better attitude towards the company and the manager.
Creativity is the best solution.
By giving employees something they like or that is motivating to them will be beneficial in the end. It may take some time on the manager's part, but the effect will pay for itself in the end. For example, purchase a gift that relates to an employee's hobby, reserve a close parking space for that employee to enjoy, or have the employee's car washed and detailed. If it is a big company, have the president call the employee personally and express their appreciation, arrange a luncheon including top management and good performers, or the manager could make a meal for those that have achieved excellence. Also, writing to an employee's family and sharing their achievement is an inexpensive reward that may favor similar results.