Salary, bonuses, and meal vouchers? These days, that’s often not enough for employees. Companies are increasingly realizing that a sufficient salary alone is not enough to keep employees motivated. This is confirmed by the results of the latest employee barometer survey by Up benefity. Almost half of respondents perceive a deterioration in working conditions, while a third report a decline in motivation and a deterioration in interpersonal relationships.
Increasing work demands, pressure to perform, and uncertainty in recent years are reflected in mental well-being and loyalty. That is why a new concept is coming to the fore: emotional pay.
What employees truly value
It’s not just about money; emotional payoff means recognition, trust, quality relationships, a sense of security, and the opportunity for growth. In short, everything that gives our work a human dimension. And that has an impact on performance, satisfaction, and the decision to stay in a job.
The survey shows that praise is as important as money for more than half of employees. Yet six out of ten people do not hear it at all during the entire month. This shows that even a higher salary is not enough for motivation if there is a lack of respect, trust, and space to express opinions.
What does emotional payout look like in practice?
It starts with your everyday approach:
- acknowledgment for a job well done
- fair communication
- clear expectations
- opportunities for growth
- a culture that values even the smallest things
It is also important to create space for regular recognition, whether in the form of team rituals or a personal approach. Emotional pay is not “something extra.” It is a natural part of a healthy corporate culture.
Digital tools can also help
Smart digital solutions can also help companies make recognition a daily part of work. These include online bulletin boards with praise, satisfaction surveys, tools for sharing feedback across teams, and transparent information about opportunities for further growth. People want to be heard, not just managed—and these simple tools can significantly strengthen relationships and the corporate atmosphere, even in hybrid teams.
The future belongs to companies that make sense
In companies where people feel good, not only performance but also resilience and loyalty grow. Emotional pay is no longer a “soft HR topic.” It is a response to what employees really need and also a key tool for sustainable business. Want to get inspired on how to get started with emotional pay? Check out specific tips and tools that can help you do that and take your company culture one step further.
