Alternatives to a pay rise

IT’S that time of year when thoughts turn to annual bonuses and pay rises. While cold hard cash is the preferred reward for those who’ve put in the time and effort, what happens when direct salary increases become a significant financial strain on businesses?

In Friday’s edition of BT Lifestyle, we explore how companies seek out alternative, cost-effective solutions, while keeping employees satisfied and incentivising them to improve their productivity. Whether in the form of one-off bonuses, upskilling opportunities or enhanced wellbeing benefits, such options are gaining more acceptance by employees globally. We talk to experts about what works and how money isn’t always everything, especially for those who seek meaning in their work.

Elsewhere in Design, we visit a house which reflects the owners’ love for art and art deco design, with interiors that show a contemporary approach to this dramatic aesthetic. For Christmas, we serve up some ideas for the food lovers on your list – or yourself. And in Dining, we check out the latest pizza joint in town – Anto pizza e aperetivi - which banks on a combination of neapolitan dough and cocktails to win you over.

For all this and more, don’t miss Friday’s issue of BT.