An incentive program can be an excellent way to increase sales, strengthen customer loyalty, and improve sales channel relationships. When you first start working with an incentive company, it can be a lot like the honeymoon stage of a relationship: everything seems perfect, and you’re both excited for the future potential of your program. But what happens if your program just isn’t living up to your expectations? Even the best of us can be lulled into expecting less from marketing tools. When it comes to incentive technology, expecting less means you’re probably getting less—and wasting your money.
Perhaps the online incentive platform you’re using is lacking in data management and communication capabilities. Or maybe the rewards catalog is lackluster and fails to entice your participants. Or, worst of all, your incentive program ROI isn’t even close to what you want it to be.
Your incentive company’s top priority should be the success of your incentive program. If they’re not willing or able to put in the work it takes to deliver incentive technology that meets your needs, then you’re better off seeking an alternative provider.
Know the Incentive Program “Red Flags”
There are a few tell-tale signs that your incentive technology is wrong your business. If you’re experiencing one or more of the following issues, it may be time to consider kicking your incentive company to the curb:
- The incentive rewards are nothing special.
- Incentive program reporting and measurement tools are lacking.
- The incentive technology can’t support communication and data demands.
- Incentive strategy support from account management leaves a lot to be desired.
- Your incentive company doesn’t understand your industry or your unique pain points.
Still not sure if you should pull the plug on your relationship with your incentive company? Take a look at the slideshare below for a more detailed explanation of these “relationship red flags,” and remember: It’s not you… it’s them.
