The Dangers of Cookie-Cutter Rewards – Are You Getting It Wrong?

In today’s hyper-personalised world, delivering generic, off-the-shelf reward strategies just doesn’t cut it. In this episode of the ecap Insights Podcast, we expose the hidden risks of using templated compensation and benefits models, and why failing to tailor your approach could be costing more than you think.

When “Best Practice” Isn’t Enough

What happens when a global consultancy delivers a $20,000 “implementation plan” that consists of just two and a half slides? Sadly, it happens more than you might think.

This episode spotlights a real-life example where a client received a copy-paste reward strategy with zero customisation; no company name, no organisational context, no execution guidance. Just bullet points, lifted straight from generic industry templates.

It’s a stark reminder that too many organisations are being sold theory over impact. At ecap, we believe your people deserve better, and your business does too.

Copy-Paste Can’t Build Culture

Here’s the truth: if your total rewards strategy doesn’t reflect who you are, it will never help you become who you want to be. Cookie-cutter solutions can’t drive engagement, can’t foster trust, and certainly can’t support transformation.

We challenge the idea that one-size-fits-all. Instead, we focus on understanding your culture, co-creating solutions with your teams, and designing systems that truly align with your business goals.

Ask Yourself This

To close the episode, we leave you with one critical reflection:
👉 Is your current reward model genuinely designed for your people and your business?

If not — or if you’re unsure — we invite you to start the conversation with us. Customisation isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity for any organisation that wants to attract, retain, and inspire top talent.

What to Expect from The Rewards Advantage Series

This series is designed for forward-thinking executives. You can expect:

• Focused episodes on key themes in total rewards and leadership
• Real stories and actionable advice
• Guest speakers, including CEOs, CHROs, and Heads of Total Rewards, who share our values
• Practical insights to help you elevate your approach

In our next episode, we will explore the hidden costs of copy-paste reward strategies and why custom solutions often lead to better, more sustainable outcomes.

If you’re ready to future-proof your rewards strategy and stay ahead of the curve, we invite you to:

👉 Follow us on LinkedIn
👉 Subscribe to ecap Insights Podcast on Vimeo and Spotify.
👉 Share your feedback and join the conversation

Thank you for tuning in — we look forward to seeing you in the next episode.