“Our business is so much in demand these days because of the retention issues that companies are facing,” said Joe Jones, president of Incenta Rewards. “They are calling us to help solve some of the workforce engagement problems that they’re facing.”
»BIZ BEAT: H&M planning hundreds of store closures
Jones and his wife Carol, the company’s CEO, started Incenta Rewards in October of 2013 with their own funds. The pair took on their first client in 2014 and have grown to about 25 now.
"We do not have any bank loans. W e 100 percent funded this venture . And we remain debt free today because we have grown and been able to sustain the business without that," Jones said. "A nd when you are debt free , you're not locked in ; Y ou can be selective on the types of projects and clients that you work with ."
The company’s six full-time employees and two part-time workers, along with a pool of about 50 contractors that help run events, set up various programs designed to help companies offer incentives outside of pay raises or health care benefits. Today’s employees do look at cash, but total compensation is growing in importance.
“Money is a big, important factor when it comes to jobs and changing jobs. But to me, that’s a symptom,” said Doug Barry, president of BarryStaff, which started using Incenta Rewards last year. “The money part of it comes into play when you open a door and give an employee a reason to leave.”
»RELATED: Construction underway for 2 new tenants in former mall Sears
Workers won’t want to leave if they feel appreciated and part of the team or overall mission, Barry said.
BarryStaff switched from an incentive rewards programs at a firm outside the region, and said the service and quality from the local company has really boosted BarryStaff’s program. Incenta Rewards helped set up a portal for Barry’s employees to pick a reward based on tenure during their anniversary each year.
A lot of companies are adding yearly service awards in the current economy. Previously, many would offer the rewards in five and 10 year increments, Jones said.
Incenta Rewards is the fastest growing company in Dayton, and Jones said he doesn’t expect that to slow down, especially since employers are increasingly struggling to find workers and turning away million dollar contracts because they lack the workforce.
»RELATED: Dayton Mall announces plans for vacant Old Navy, Maurices spaces
"We have to tell a better story of why we have great jobs right here in the Miami Valley, so that when our college grads graduate , they're not leaving for larger cities , the Chicago's, the New Yorks, even Cincinnati and Columbus," he said.
• Things Remembered reportedly prepares to file bankruptcy, close stores
• Hepatitis A outbreak continues to grow in Ohio
• Niche store at The Greene to close later this month
• 5 ways potential Kettering Amazon delivery facility could speed up your delivery
• 7 Super Bowl commercials that will have you laughing even after the game
About the Author