How do you compensate your staff?

I've never really have done anything to compensate them openly like giving them physical perks. 
To be honest, this is something I might have to look into ideas. 

That said I am not the kind to just expect them to work without making them feel appreciated. Especially when they go beyond their scope. I make a point to bring it up and thanking them. I want my staff to feel they can tell me if there are any problems or things I can help with.

If you have a big forum (as in a lot of hard work) - but not a lot of cash - I suppose you could compensate volunteers by reminding them about their resume.  You could promise a good reference for it.  I mean, that could mean a lot!  That's why you see all these hospital volunteers!

I have had a few paid staff in the past, but these days I try and go for free service ones. Kind of silly to pay them for a privilege really.

I pay my staff, as a little token to say thank you and keep them going cause you know everyone always wants a little something in return!

Posted by: TheJason

If you have a big forum (as in a lot of hard work) - but not a lot of cash - I suppose you could compensate volunteers by reminding them about their resume.  You could promise a good reference for it.  I mean, that could mean a lot!  That's why you see all these hospital volunteers!

To be fair, I've leveraged a lot of what I've done online in terms of my CV when I've been applying for jobs. At the end of the day, It's effectively work and similar skills can apply elsewhere. Working in a team, dealing with irate customers (members) and all that kind of stuff. Hell, if you own a site, you're managing your time, learning all sorts of skills and managing a budget for example. All of these are ones I've actually used on my CV and at points, have had to talk about in a proceeding interview. It's weird at first but people seem to respect it. 

That aside though, at the end of the day that staff member is probably giving up their own free time to work on your forum and personally, I believe they should be compensated for what they are doing. Even if it's not market rates, knowing someone gives a damn is a good feeling. 

Some say pay your staff but for many owners they do not have the funds to do so and so the best option is give them more options on the site as well as do things with them when you aren't the site. With an gaming site then do little gifts to them and if you get bigger and your staff help allot on your site and then give them 10% or more of your earnings.