Every business owner has their own idea on how to recognize outstanding performance by employees. Most rewards systems, meanwhile, lack one aspect or another. Many individuals first consider money when it comes time to thank employees for great work. But that just addresses half the solution.

Working with hundreds of companies over the years, we have noticed that the top employee incentives programs cover four fundamental areas: salary, benefits, recognition, and appreciation. The problem for many businesses is that they’re either missing one or more of these elements, or the elements that are addressed aren’t properly aligned with the company’s other corporate strategies.

Here are some best practices your business can put in place to make sure you’re properly addressing each area in the ways you reward employees for excellent performance.