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Grant Ward

Rewards are a fundamental aspect of human motivation, and the workplace is no exception. While traditional compensation packages are important, successful organisations are rethinking their rewards strategies to align with the needs of today's workforce.

This course delves deep into the world of rewards and recognition, going beyond the basics of salary and benefits. You'll explore how to design a strategic programme that not only attracts and retains talent but also fuels performance and fosters a positive work environment.

What you’ll learn:

Read more

Rewards are a fundamental aspect of human motivation, and the workplace is no exception. While traditional compensation packages are important, successful organisations are rethinking their rewards strategies to align with the needs of today's workforce.

This course delves deep into the world of rewards and recognition, going beyond the basics of salary and benefits. You'll explore how to design a strategic programme that not only attracts and retains talent but also fuels performance and fosters a positive work environment.

What you’ll learn:

  • Strategic rewards: Design a strategic rewards programme to motivate and retain top talent.
  • Exploring data: Analyse market data to inform your rewards strategy and stay competitive.
  • The right rewards: Make data-driven decisions about rewards and compensation packages.
  • Helping your team: Support line managers in making fair and consistent reward decisions.

This is a five-week, intermediate, self-paced course and delivered through engaging content, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule.

Enrol today and take your HR career to the next level!

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Week 1: making rewards meaningful
  • Week 2: reward-based performance
  • Week 3: putting rewards into context
  • Week 4: the right value of every job

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
This is an intermediate-level course. It is designed for experienced professionals
This course is designed for HR professionals and HR managers
Other managers and executives may also take this course

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Reviews summary

Strategic rewards for hr professionals

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive experience, particularly for HR professionals and managers looking to enhance their understanding of compensation and performance. Students find the content to be practical and highly relevant, especially in designing strategic rewards programs and applying data analysis for competitive strategies. While many appreciate the self-paced format and well-structured material, some recent feedback suggests a desire for more interactive elements and a deeper dive beyond foundational topics, especially for those with prior experience. Overall, it's considered a valuable resource for modernizing reward strategies.
Flexible learning structure fits busy professional schedules.
"The self-paced format worked well with my busy schedule."
"The engaging content makes it easy to fit into your busy schedule."
"I found the self-paced nature allowed me to learn at my own speed effectively."
Helps in developing strategic and data-driven reward programs.
"This course truly helped me refine our company's rewards strategy."
"Excellent course! ... It completely changed how I approach performance incentives."
"I liked the focus on data-driven decisions and how to make rewards meaningful."
Focuses on real-world applicability of reward strategies.
"The module on data analysis was particularly insightful, providing practical tools I could immediately apply."
"The content is practical, relevant, and well-explained. It gave me a fresh perspective..."
"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."
Debate on whether it truly moves beyond fundamental concepts.
"I was disappointed. The course promised to go 'beyond the basics' but much of it was fundamental."
"As someone with experience, some topics felt like a refresher, but there were still valuable insights."
"For experienced professionals, some modules might rehash familiar ground rather than push new boundaries."
Some desire more interactive elements and case studies.
"The content is relevant, but the delivery could be more engaging. ... I would have appreciated more interactive elements or forum activity."
"Some parts felt a bit theoretical, and I wished for more real-world case studies..."
"I felt the course could benefit from more dynamic discussions and practical exercises."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Reward for Performance and Contribution with these activities:
Review Compensation and Benefits Concepts
Warm up with compensation and benefits concepts to build foundational knowledge for the course.
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Show steps
  • Review notes from an undergraduate course in human resources or compensation management.
  • Review textbook chapters on compensation and benefits.
  • Complete practice problems or quizzes on compensation and benefits concepts.
Review basic rewards concepts
By reviewing basic rewards concepts, you will recall key principles which will refresh your knowledge on the topic when you start the course.
Browse courses on Rewards
Show steps
  • Review chapters on rewards from your introductory HR textbook
  • Take a practice quiz on rewards concepts
Complete practice problems on reward calculations
Completing practice problems on reward calculations will strengthen your understanding of how rewards are determined.
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Show steps
  • Review the formula for total rewards
  • Solve practice problems on calculating bonuses and incentives
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Explore emerging trends in rewards management
By exploring emerging trends in rewards management, you will stay current on the latest industry practices and research.
Browse courses on Emerging Trends
Show steps
  • Follow industry leaders on LinkedIn and read their articles on rewards trends
  • Attend a webinar on emerging trends in rewards management
Design a sample rewards and recognition programme
By designing a sample rewards and recognition programme, you will apply the concepts you learn in the course to a practical scenario.
Browse courses on Compensation
Show steps
  • Identify reward and recognition goals and objectives
  • Conduct a needs assessment to determine employee needs and preferences
Participate in a discussion group on rewards and performance management
Participating in a discussion group on rewards and performance management will allow you to exchange ideas and learn from others' experiences.
Browse courses on Compensation
Show steps
  • Join a discussion group on a platform like LinkedIn or Reddit
  • Participate in discussions and ask questions on rewards and performance management
Read 'The Future of Rewards' by David Green
Reading 'The Future of Rewards' by David Green will provide you with valuable insights and perspectives on the latest trends and challenges in rewards management.
Show steps
  • Chapter summaries and discussion questions
Contribute to the open-source project 'Rewards Hub'
Contributing to the open-source project 'Rewards Hub' will allow you to gain hands-on experience in rewards management and contribute to the community.
Browse courses on Open Source
Show steps
  • Review the 'Rewards Hub' GitHub repository
  • Identify areas where you can contribute your skills and expertise

Career center

Learners who complete Reward for Performance and Contribution will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Reward for Performance and Contribution.
Authored by the pioneers of Self-Determination Theory, this book offers a deep dive into the theoretical underpinnings of intrinsic motivation and the satisfaction of basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, relatedness). It's a crucial resource for graduate students and professionals seeking a comprehensive understanding of this influential theory. It serves as a key reference for researchers in the field.
This widely used textbook that provides a broad introduction to the core concepts and practices of Human Resource Management. It covers essential areas such as recruitment, training, compensation, and employee relations, making it suitable for those seeking foundational knowledge. It is often used as a primary text in undergraduate HRM programs.
This comprehensive handbook offers a collection of chapters by leading scholars covering a wide range of topics and theories in human motivation. It's an invaluable resource for graduate students, researchers, and professionals seeking an in-depth overview of the field's current state and future directions. It serves as an excellent reference tool for advanced study.
Considered a definitive guide in the field, this handbook offers comprehensive coverage of HRM theory and practice. It's a valuable reference tool for both students and practitioners, delving into key areas like performance management, organizational behavior, and employee relations. The latest editions incorporate recent developments and international perspectives.
This foundational book introduces the concepts of fixed and growth mindsets and their profound impact on motivation and achievement. It's essential for gaining a broad understanding of how beliefs about ability shape our willingness to learn and persevere. It is commonly used as a foundational text in educational and psychological settings.
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This classic explores the concept of 'flow,' a state of deep immersion and enjoyment in an activity that is intrinsically motivating. It's essential for understanding the psychological experience of optimal motivation and provides insights into how to cultivate this state. It's a valuable read for anyone interested in peak performance and well-being.
Focuses on the critical competencies required for modern HR professionals to be strategic partners within their organizations. It emphasizes aligning HR with business goals and provides a framework for understanding the evolving role of HR. This is particularly relevant for those looking to deepen their understanding of HR's strategic impact.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the psychology of rewards and motivation. It covers everything from the basic principles of operant conditioning to the latest research on reward systems in the brain.
Considered a foundational text in performance management, this book delves into the science of behavior and its application in the workplace to drive organizational effectiveness. It provides a scientific method for improving performance and is used as a primary reading in undergraduate organizational psychology courses. valuable reference for understanding the behavioral principles behind performance management.
Bridges the gap between HR and finance, focusing on the financial and accounting aspects of compensation and benefit design. It's essential for HR professionals involved in total rewards strategy and demonstrates how to quantify the impact of compensation and benefits programs.
This book, co-authored by Edward Deci, provides a more narrative and accessible exploration of the principles of self-motivation and how to apply them in various aspects of life. It's a good entry point for those new to Self-Determination Theory and looking for practical guidance on fostering motivation in themselves and others.
A foundational text in strategic HRM, this book provides a framework for measuring and demonstrating the value of HR initiatives. It helps connect HR activities to organizational performance and is essential for understanding how HR can contribute to strategic objectives. It's a key resource for both students and professionals focused on HR metrics and analytics.
Serves as a comprehensive guide to HR issues, processes, and best practices. It covers a wide range of topics, from strategic talent management to navigating changing technologies and DEI. It's a useful reference tool for HR professionals dealing with day-to-day challenges and emerging trends.
While focused on persuasion, this book is highly relevant to understanding how external factors can influence behavior and motivation. It outlines key principles of influence that can be applied to motivate others ethically. It's a valuable resource for anyone in leadership, sales, or marketing roles. is widely recognized and frequently referenced.
Focuses on leveraging data and analytics to inform HR decisions. It provides a framework for understanding and applying people analytics techniques to address HR challenges such as employee turnover and performance. It is particularly relevant for those interested in the growing area of data-driven HR.
Authored by the co-founder of Intel, this classic book foundational text in management and the origin of the OKR framework. It offers practical techniques for building high-performing teams and motivating employees. While not solely focused on performance management, its principles are highly relevant and provide essential background knowledge.
Delves into the irrationality of human behavior and decision-making, which directly impacts motivation. It uses engaging experiments to illustrate how context and behavioral economics influence our choices, providing a practical understanding of why we don't always act in our own best interest. It's a good complement to traditional motivation theories.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of compensation, benefits, and the total rewards concept. It's a key resource for HR professionals designing and implementing compensation and benefits programs, covering strategic considerations and practical aspects.
Following 'Start With Why,' this book explores how creating a 'Circle of Safety' in organizations fosters trust and cooperation, leading to increased motivation and performance. It focuses on the biological and psychological factors that contribute to motivated teams. It's a valuable resource for leaders and managers.
This collection of insights from thought leaders explores emerging issues and the future direction of HRM. It's a valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities shaping the HR profession.
Addressing the critical contemporary topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), this book provides actionable strategies for creating a more inclusive workplace culture. It's essential reading for HR professionals aiming to foster a sense of belonging for all employees.
This guide offers a practical, multi-step approach to performance management, focusing on setting clear goals, tracking progress, and providing feedback. It compiles insights from various Harvard Business Review articles, making it a good resource for understanding current thinking and best practices. It is particularly useful for managers and HR professionals looking for actionable guidance.
Serves as a practical guide for HR professionals looking to utilize data and analytics in their work. It covers the key aspects of people analytics and how to apply them to make better business decisions, even with limited prior experience in analytics.
Examines the specific challenges of rewarding innovation and creativity. Provides practical advice and case studies on how to create reward systems that foster innovation within organizations.
Challenges traditional HR practices and explores the future role of HR in a rapidly changing world of work. It advocates for a more human-centric and agile approach to HR, making it relevant for those interested in contemporary and disruptive HR models.
A seminal work in management literature, this book introduced the concept of Management by Objectives (MBO), a precursor to modern performance management frameworks. While older, its principles remain relevant for understanding the historical development and core ideas of performance management. It classic text for gaining a broad understanding of management principles.
Written by Google's former head of People Operations, this book offers a data-driven approach to HR practices and building a high-performing culture. It provides insights into innovative talent management strategies and is valuable for understanding contemporary approaches in leading organizations.
Provides practical guidance on how to design and implement effective reward systems. It covers everything from setting goals and objectives to measuring and evaluating results.
Explores contemporary themes and issues in HRM through text and case studies. It covers fundamental practices while also examining current topics like workplace bullying and flexibility, making it suitable for gaining a deeper understanding of modern HR challenges.
Exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on the HR function, this book discusses how HR professionals can leverage AI to improve processes and support the workforce. It is highly relevant for understanding the role of technology in contemporary HR.
This manual offers a practical approach to understanding and applying HR analytics, even for those new to the field. It provides hands-on guidance for using data to inform HR policies and improve business performance.
Written by OKR experts, this book provides a detailed roadmap for successfully implementing OKRs. It covers the origins, principles, and practical examples of how companies use OKRs to drive performance and achieve goals. This valuable resource for those specifically interested in the OKR framework.
Effective communication is vital in performance management, especially during feedback and review discussions. provides practical tools and techniques for handling high-stakes conversations constructively. It is an excellent resource for developing the interpersonal skills needed for performance management.
Focuses on the importance of the employee experience in driving engagement and performance. It provides a framework for understanding and improving the employee journey within an organization, a critical contemporary HR topic.
Focusing specifically on attracting and acquiring talent, this book provides strategies and best practices for recruitment in the modern landscape. It's essential for HR professionals involved in building effective hiring processes.
Explores the neuroscience of rewards and shows how different types of rewards can have different effects on the brain. It provides insights into how to design rewards that are more effective and motivating.
A widely recognized textbook in organizational behavior, this book provides a strong foundation in understanding individual and group behavior within organizations. This knowledge is fundamental for HR professionals dealing with employee motivation, team dynamics, and organizational culture.
This practical guide focuses on the link between performance management and employee engagement. It offers tools and techniques for managers to enhance engagement through effective performance practices, including feedback, goal setting, and coaching. It is particularly relevant for those looking to improve motivation and retention.
Provides a comprehensive overview of performance management and rewards. It covers everything from setting performance goals to designing reward systems.
Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in self-motivation and the ability to motivate others. explores the components of emotional intelligence and its importance in personal and professional success. It provides a broader psychological perspective relevant to understanding the emotional drivers of motivation.
McClelland's work on the achievement motive significant contribution to motivation theory. explores the need for achievement, affiliation, and power and their impact on individual and societal success. It's a key text for understanding learned needs and their role in motivation.
This handbook offers a practical and accessible guide to essential HR practices for both HR professionals and managers. It covers a wide range of topics and serves as a quick reference for common HR issues.
Focuses on shifting performance management from a focus on unattainable goals to continuous improvement. It provides insights and frameworks for building a culture of performance excellence within organizations. It valuable resource for a holistic view of performance management.

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