Sometimes the smallest gestures can have the biggest impact.
New research from Pod has found that an unexpected compliment is Britain’s favourite everyday reward, with 84% of people saying spontaneous praise can completely turn their day around.
The research, based on responses from 2,000 UK adults, suggests that simple acts of recognition are valued more than many expensive rewards. In fact, 79% of respondents said the best rewards are small, unexpected and effortless, while 80% believe regular everyday boosts are more meaningful than one-off treats.
Brits Want More Recognition for Everyday Tasks
According to the study, three in four people (75%) would like more recognition for the everyday jobs they already do.
The most commonly mentioned tasks included:
- Cleaning the house (40%)
- Cooking the evening meal (30%)
- Taking out the bins (21%)
- Keeping the car fuelled and ready for the next day (14%)
The research also found:
- 69% say routine activities would feel more rewarding if they came with a benefit.
- 74% prefer rewards for things they already do rather than having to complete extra challenges.
For electric vehicle owners, Pod believes home charging is one of those everyday routines that can now offer a tangible reward.
Pod Rewards Pays Drivers for Smart Charging
Through Pod Rewards, eligible customers can earn up to £100 per year by smart charging their electric vehicles at home.
Rather than manually managing charging sessions, drivers simply set their preferred charge target and allow the system to optimise charging, typically overnight. Alongside potential savings, the scheme rewards customers with cashback for participating in smart charging.
The company says the programme is designed to make switching to electric vehicles feel simpler, more affordable and more rewarding.
Troy Hawke Surprises EV Owners
To launch the campaign, Pod teamed up with internet personality and comedian Troy Hawke, often referred to by fans as the “King of Compliments.”
Known for his witty and uplifting interactions with strangers, Hawke surprised Pod customers at their homes, congratulating them on making the switch to home EV charging while delivering his signature compliments.
Speaking about the campaign, Hawke said it was “a genuine joy” celebrating people who had made a practical and environmentally conscious decision.
The UK’s Biggest Everyday Mood Boosters
The survey also ranked the moments that give people the biggest lift during everyday life.
The top ten included:
- Unexpected compliments or praise (44%)
- Finally finishing something you’ve been putting off (40%)
- Receiving an unexpected freebie or discount (39%)
- Getting a message from someone you’ve been meaning to catch up with (30%)
- Hearing a favourite song at exactly the right moment (28%)
- Being praised for making the right choice (24%)
- Someone letting you go ahead in a queue (19%)
- Waking up before your alarm and realising you have extra time (18%)
- Finding the perfect parking space (14%)
- Hitting a run of green traffic lights (12%)
Home EV Charging Becoming Second Nature
The research also highlighted how quickly drivers adapt to charging their vehicles at home.
Among EV owners surveyed:
- 81% said home charging was easier than expected.
- 98% said it quickly became part of their normal routine.
- 92% believe smart overnight charging makes owning an EV simpler.
- 75% rarely think about charging once their home charger has been installed.
Melanie Lane, CEO of Pod, said the company wants electric living to feel straightforward and rewarding.
She explained that while Pod Rewards offers customers cashback for smart charging, it also reinforces confidence that switching to electric driving was the right decision.
Find Out More
More information about Pod’s home charging solutions and Pod Rewards can be found on the official Pod website.
