Oftentimes, businesses overlook the small things when trying to determine what type of incentives will work best with their employees. For meetings that do not require travel to some exotic destination or if a budget simply will now allow travel at the present time, there are other ways to reward employees and express appreciation. One of the most overlooked ways in which to show employees how much their work is appreciated and to provide motivation for continued dedication is food. Businesses that select food as one of their incentives need to ensure they plan the incentive meals properly.

Providing food as an incentive or reward can keep a business' costs low if planned properly. While catering is ideal if a business' budget permits, the business can purchase and serve the food themselves. Businesses may want to plan to serve either breakfast or lunch to employees before or after a meeting. Breakfast foods such as juice, coffee, muffins, doughnuts, and bagels are staples. A business could have a lunch delivered, such as hot sandwiches or pizza, and give employees the opportunity to relax while having lunch. Incentives do not always have to be grand gestures or expensive trips. Sometimes the small things can say thanks in a significant way.