Want Better Training Results? Make It Worth Their While!

Product knowledge is power in retail. But keeping up with training isn’t always easy for store associates. Between juggling customer questions, stocking shelves, and keeping up with the latest tech, training can quickly fall to the bottom of the to-do list.

That’s where a little motivation goes a long way.

Adding incentives to your training approach can turn learning from something associates “have” to do into something they want to do. For your store to excel, you must create a culture where effort is appreciated, growth is encouraged, and success is celebrated.

Let’s take a look at why incentivizing training works so well and how the Intel® Retail Edge Program makes it easier than ever to put that idea into action.
 

Why Incentives Matter

Most people thrive on recognition. It feels good to be acknowledged for hard work, whether it’s a simple thank-you, a digital badge, or a prize. In retail, where shifts are busy and days are long, those little moments of recognition can keep motivation high.

Incentives help make training feel less like a chore and more like an opportunity. They give associates something to work toward and something to look forward to.

Done well, incentives tie into a bigger goal: helping associates grow their knowledge and confidence so they can give better advice to customers and boost overall store performance.
 

What Makes a Good Training Incentive?

To really make an impact, your training incentives should be: 

• Achievable. Set realistic goals with rewards that feel within reach. If the bar is too high, people may not even try.
   
• Frequent. Smaller, consistent rewards help keep the momentum going. Waiting too long for a prize can sap motivation.
   
• Fun. Games, quizzes, challenges—if they’re engaging, they’re more likely to stick.
   
• Relevant. Know your team. What excites them? A gift card? Cool tech? A shout-out on the store leaderboard? Personalize it when you can.
   
• Tied to performance. Rewards should reflect real learning and growth. When associates understand that incentives come from effort and results, it reinforces a culture of excellence.
  
   

How Intel® Retail Edge Program Makes Learning Rewarding

If you’re looking for a turnkey way to motivate your team, the Intel® Retail Edge Program has you covered. It’s more than just training; it’s an experience designed to reward associates as they grow their knowledge of the latest Intel®-powered devices and products.

Here are a few ways the Program keeps things engaging:

• Earn Chips. Associates rack up Chips by completing quick, easy-to-digest training modules. These can be used toward fun rewards or merch.
   
• Get Recognized. Whether it’s through leaderboards or badges, associates can see how they’re doing and can get inspired by their peers.
   
• Win Big. Competitions like Score with Intel® Core let associates test their knowledge for a chance to win awesome prizes. It’s a fun way to keep learning exciting.
   
• Stay Updated. As technology evolves, the Program helps associates stay current, so they can speak confidently about AI PCs, Intel® Core™ Ultra processors, and other innovations.

When associates are confident in the products they recommend, customers notice. Conversations become smoother, recommendations feel more personalized, and, best of all, sales grow.
 

Why This Matters for Your Store

Well-trained associates make a real difference. They build trust with customers, turn browsers into buyers, and create the kind of experience that keeps shoppers coming back.

By layering in incentives, you make training feel less like an obligation and more like a benefit. It helps retain top talent, reduce onboarding time, and build a stronger, more informed team. And when your team wins, your store wins.

Even better? Incentives don’t always have to come out of your budget. The Intel® Retail Edge Program offers rewards, perks, and recognition baked right into the experience, so you get all the benefits without any of the hassle.
 

Recognition Fuels Results

At the end of the day, people want to feel seen. They want to know their time and energy matter. When you pair great training with thoughtful incentives, you create a powerful combo that drives real results for your team, your customers, and your bottom line.

So, if you’re looking for a simple way to boost training engagement, start by making it worth their while.

Encourage your team to sign up for the Intel® Retail Edge Program and discover how learning can lead to lasting rewards.

Notices and Disclaimers

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