GiftCard Partners Blog

As we approach World Productivity Day on June 20th, a day recognized by the United Nations to focus on improving how we work and live, many employers are interested in increasing productivity in their workplaces. However, increasing productivity does not mean a promotion of “hustle culture” or a breakneck pace that leads to employee burnout.  

If it feels like every conversation in HR and leadership circles revolves around upskilling lately, you’re not imagining it. The pace of change is dizzying: by some estimates, about a third of the skills needed for the average job have changed since 2021, and the World Economic Forum thinks almost 60% of the global workforce will need to be reskilled by 2030.

Health and wellness programs are one of the few employee programs that benefit both employers and employees directly. These programs lower healthcare costs for both parties and provide benefits to physical, mental and financial well-being that allow employees to bring their best selves to work every day. 

According to a study by Harvard Business Review, companies with comprehensive wellness programs see a nearly 8% increase in employees who reach their annual performance targets. Innovative strategies, such as summer wellness initiatives coupled with an effective incentive system like gift cards, could be your ticket to harnessing this potential in your business.

Leadership isn’t just for the C-suite. Strong leaders at every level help shape workplace culture, boost team performance, and drive long-term success. But leadership isn’t an innate trait; it’s a skill set that needs to be nurtured, coached, and rewarded.

If you're looking to grow leaders from within your organization, there are smart, practical ways to build a leadership development program that actually sticks. Here’s how to do it in a way that inspires participation, strengthens your talent pipeline, and shows your rising stars they’re valued.