In 1995, Nancy Good walked into a Frederick, Md.,-based Roy Rogers eager for a job. Never having worked a day in her life, Good chose Roy Rogers over Burger King because her sister told her about the company picnics and prizes she could earn in sales contests. Starting as a food attendant, Good eventually learned all of the restaurant functions from making food to preparing payroll.
"Working at Roy Rogers can be quite challenging. When I first started I was shy and nervous, now I feel very comfortable in the job," Good says.
Fast-forward to the year 2000. Good is now a general manager and a third-year student at Frederick Community College.
Good participates in Roy Rogers' tuition reimbursement program, which is offered by the Plamondon Co., the Frederick, Md.-based franchiser of 15 Roy Rogers restaurants. Employees who work at least 15 hours a week are eligible to participate. Employees who earn an A or B in a course are reimbursed 100 percent, while a C is given 50 percent reimbursement.
Driver's education, English as a Second Language and sales contests also motivate employees. Merchandise awards have included televisions, Wal-Mart gift certificates and a cruise.
In its partnership with Coca-Cola, Roy Rogers initiated a "Get Caught RedHanded" incentive. Each time a Roy Rogers associate asks a mystery shopper if: they would like a combination meal, instant prizes are given to the entire restaurant. Prizes range from Coca-Cola coolers to T-shirts to cash prizes.