The study confirmed that individuals with certain personality types and personality preferences, have different preferences for certain reward categories. There was a stronger relationship between reward preferences and personality preferences than for reward preferences and personality types. Preferences for reward categories by different demographic groups were confirmed. The significant difference in reward preferences between Black and White respondents in particular was noteworthy, with Black respondents indicating significantly higher mean scores for all reward categories than White respondents. Finally, a total rewards framework informed by the most prominent preferences for reward categories, was designed.

Dr Ronél Nienaber holds a Doctorate in Commerce from the University of Johannesburg and a M Comm (HR Management) cum laude. She is a registered Industrial Psychologist. She is currently the Group General manager: Global rewards at Sasol. She makes an active contribution to the Reward discipline as a mentor, author, study leader and speaker.