As we talk with employers across the nation, innovative bonus ideas are often shared.
Some employers pay a cash bonus after harvest or at year's end.
A rancher in Nebraska helps his employee develop a cow herd by giving him the pick of the heifer calves at weaning. A High-Plains irrigated farmer sold an employee the land and loaned him the money to build his own house there on the farm. Just as unusual incentives have become an important part of funding in U.S. politics, incentives and bonuses can also be a valuable tool for holding long-term ag employees. Employers without a Lincoln bedroom to offer, however, should consider developing some other creative bonus program.