In a statement, the firm revealed consulted colleagues during a celebratory ‘Lunch Club’ meal and within a week decided to trial a target for the following week while having Friday afternoons off from midday.

While the target was initially missed, consultants came very close to hitting it.

“It was a bit of a shock how successful the incentive was,” director Alan Furley said. “I think it’s worked so well because it’s a clear short-term goal, which we can collaborate on achieving and was agreed across the office.

“It’s been set at the sweet spot between stretch and achievable, typically 150% of budget. People know they can do something better on Tuesday and see the reward three days later, rather than just in their pay check in three months.

“And, most importantly, the reward is theirs to choose. They can spend the time however they want.”

Furley attributes the initiative’s success to the fact it encourages behaviours that improve the chances of filling roles.

“We were much clearer in agreeing expectations with clients and candidates on the prices, avoiding surprises. The incentive created urgency across the board, people presented alternative options and picked up the phone to discuss candidates rather than send emails in hope.

“I think this challenged clients on their appetite to hire and allowed us to perform the role of trusted adviser, which has always been where we work best.”

The ISL team, which consists of around 30 people, hit the target in the following two weeks and three further times in the last 10.

“When we’ve finished early everyone has some different reward. Some have gone to the pub. Some napped, cleaned, went for a walk, golfed or picked up kids from school. The key is it’s whatever our people want to do, not what I’m guessing might motivate them. It sounds cheesy but we’re giving the gift of time!

“The atmosphere in the office seems much more positive. There is constant talk about what each other has going on, with greater appetite to help each other. It’s encouraged risk taking and innovation.”

• Comment below on this story. You can also tweet us to tell us your thoughts or share this story with a friend. Our editorial email is [email protected]