​The first option for many employers to consider when looking to create a plan that keeps their employees and top executives happy, is a Reward Program. A reward program can help an employer stay competitive in today’s challenging marketplace, as employees and executives are beginning to demand more than a traditional salary alone. This program can also allow an employer to “share” the growth of the company with the executive without necessarily giving them company stock. Using something other than company stock to share the growth prevents shareholder dilution from occurring, something that can be challenging to avoid when using a typical stock-based reward. While employees and executives may appreciate the benefits offered by this program, it does little to encourage long-term retention as most rewards are paid currently.