The Incentive

Season 8 Episode 2 Summary

The Office, Season 8, Episode 2, “The Incentive,” tests Andy’s skills as the new branch manager. The cold open features Kevin cutting words to save time, which only leaves everyone confused. His classic line, “Why waste time, say lot word when few word do trick?”, sparks the “Sea World” debate.

Dwight presents Sabre’s Pyramid tablet, a bulky, triangle-shaped device with odd specs and little appeal. Andy interrupts to seek tie advice before Robert California arrives, which adds to Dwight’s growing anger. Robert then praises the value of personal service and orders Andy to double the branch’s growth.

Andy seeks ideas from the sales team, but he brings no new leads or clear plan. Dwight refuses to help, choosing to bake brownies while waiting for Andy to fail. Meanwhile, Darryl brags about a night with his ex-wife, Justine, before she arrives seeking a private talk.

Andy creates a points system, offering prizes that range from toys to books and a vibrator. The staff shows little interest until Jim asks what much larger point totals could earn. Andy offers to wear a dress, run naked, and let the staff choose a tattoo for his rear.

Jim confirms that staff members can pool points, turning Andy’s rash promise into a shared goal. The office bursts into action, with even Stanley pushing the Pyramid instead of taking his usual desk nap. They earn 5,000 points in one day, while Andy calls his old professor for ways to crush morale.

Pam and Angela also try taking walks together, since both are pregnant at the same time. Their bond breaks when Angela scolds Pam over caffeine, despite Pam’s claim that she drinks herbal tea. Angela says she already called social services, and they agree to stop treating their pregnancies as a shared task.

At the tattoo shop, the staff presents crude designs, including a baby coming out of Andy’s rear. Andy doubts his role, but Jim’s pep talk helps him see how much fun he gave the team. He keeps his promise, while Robert explains that Andy’s plain nature can make people fight for him.

The staff swaps the rude design for a Nard Dog puppy, and Andy loves the tribute to his nickname. To share a favorite quote, click the camera button next to it. You can then create an image of the quote to share on social media.