Ever wondered how you can improve employee engagement and retention within your organization? 

Of course!

Well, then it’s time you considered employee recognition awards.

Employee recognition awards serve as a powerful tool to boost employee morale and foster a positive company culture. 

Whether you’re a seasoned HR professional or a manager, this guide is tailored to provide you with practical insights — while highlighting the impact on employee productivity and your bottom line.

Ready to see how it all comes together? Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

What Are Employee Recognition Awards?

Benefits of Employee Recognition Awards

17 Examples of Employee Recognition Awards  

Types of Employee Recognition Awards

Recognition Awards Best Practices

How to Measure the Effectiveness of an Employee Recognition Program

What Are Employee Recognition Awards?

Employee recognition awards are tangible, formal acknowledgments of an employee’s exceptional effort, dedication, or outstanding performance in their role or within the company. 

These awards play a crucial role in expressing appreciation and highlighting an employee’s contributions, fostering a positive work environment, and improving overall job satisfaction. 

With a well-thought-out recognition program, you can create a culture of appreciation that goes beyond performance metrics — encouraging employees to excel in their roles and contribute positively to the organization’s success.

Now, let’s explore the significant benefits employee recognition awards can have on your work environment.

Benefits of Employee Recognition Awards

According to research, organizations with employee recognition programs have 31% less voluntary turnover and are 12x more likely to have strong business outcomes.

Hence, the impact of recognition awards in the workplace is profound, as they significantly contribute to creating a positive work environment.

Here’s a closer look at the benefits:

• Boosts employee morale and engagement: Engaged employees are crucial, and according to Forbes, employees are 2.7x more likely to be engaged if they believe management will recognize their efforts. 
• Enhances company culture: Recognition awards reinforce the desired employee behaviors that align with the company’s values.
• Improves employee retention: Employees are more likely to stay with a company that acknowledges their efforts and makes them feel valued.
• Elevates performance levels: Recognizing outstanding performance encourages all team members to strive for excellence, improving overall productivity and output.
• Promotes professional development: Recognition can also highlight an employee’s strengths, aiding in their professional growth and development.

As we move forward, let’s explore various employee recognition awards and how to effectively incorporate them into your workplace culture.

17 Examples of Employee Recognition Awards  

Employee recognition awards are a great way to spotlight the exceptional contributions of team members and reinforce the values that drive your organization forward.

Here are 17 stellar examples of awards for you to explore:

1. Peer recognition award

The peer recognition award is ideal for employees who consistently acknowledge and value the hard work and dedication of their peers.

Why you should offer an award for peer recognition: Peer-to-peer recognition is 35.7% more likely to positively impact a company’s financial results than manager-only recognition. 

Hence, employees who help new hires feel welcome, and take the time to notice the good in others deserve this award.

Plus, it shows they’re setting a standard of kindness and mutual respect that can uplift the entire organization.

Award name suggestions

• The High-Five Hero Award.
• The Kudos King/Queen Award.
• The Shoutout Star Award.

2. Listening and feedback award

The listening and feedback award recognizes employees who stand out for their ability to actively listen and provide constructive feedback to their peers.

Plus, according to a study, 74% of employees report being more effective at their jobs when they feel heard.

Why you should offer an award to those who listen and give feedback: A culture of open communication and constructive criticism improves problem-solving skills and innovation within the team.

So, recognizing employees for their contribution in this area encourages others to develop these crucial skills, creating a space where colleagues feel heard and valued. 

Award name suggestions

• The Insightful Listener Award.
• The Empathetic Ear Award.
• The Feedback Maestro Award.

3. Team player award

The team player award is for those who go above and beyond in aiding their colleagues, and make teamwork look effortless. 

Their ability to work well with others, irrespective of the situation, ensures a productive work atmosphere that drives the entire team toward success.

Why you should offer an award for team players: According to Deloitte, organizations that promote a culture of inclusion and teamwork are 2x as likely to meet or exceed financial targets. 

Plus, recognizing and rewarding team players sends a clear message that teamwork is not just expected but also celebrated.

Award name suggestions

• The Collaboration Champion Award.
• Employee of the Month Award.
• Best Team Player Award.

4. Mentorship award

The Mentorship Award is a prestigious accolade designed to honor those who have proven themselves to be invaluable assets to the team — both teachers and role models. 

Why you should offer an award for mentorship: Mentorship is a critical element in employee development and retention. 

According to a study, employees who participate in a mentoring program see 22% higher retention rates for mentees and 20% for mentors. 

Plus, recognizing and rewarding mentors ensures that valuable skills and experiences are passed down and preserved within the organization.

Award name suggestions

• The Guiding Light Award.
• The Growth Guru Award.
• The Sage of Support Award.

5. Innovator award

The innovator award celebrates the brilliant minds within an organization, spotlighting the employees who consistently bring fresh, innovative ideas to the table.

Recipients of this award possess a unique blend of creativity, analytical thinking, and a willingness to take risks. 

Why you should offer an award for innovation: According to a study by McKinsey, 84% of CEOs agree that innovation is critical to achieving their growth objectives. 

By recognizing and rewarding innovation, you’re celebrating the achievements of your most creative employees, while underlining the importance of innovation to the entire organization. 

Award name suggestions

• Most Innovative Employee of the Year Award.
• The Visionary Leader Award.
• Best in Innovation Award.

Tip: Adding tech swag as a perk to this award can significantly elevate the experience and relevance of the recognition. Consider items like high-quality headphones, or innovative office tools that match the cutting-edge spirit of the awardee. 

6. Customer service award

HR professionals design customer service awards to recognize employees who consistently deliver exceptional service.

These employees are the face of the organization, directly interacting with customers and significantly contributing to overall customer satisfaction.

Why you should offer an award for customer service: According to HubSpot Research, 93% of customers are likely to make repeat purchases with companies that offer great customer service. 

Recognizing and rewarding stellar customer service boosts the morale of the award recipients and inspires others to elevate their level of customer service.

Award name suggestions

• The Customer Service Champion.
• The Client Hero Award.
• Best in Customer Service Award.

7. Leadership in diversity and inclusion award

This award recognizes employees who create environments where all employees feel valued, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential — regardless of their background, identity, or experiences.

Why you should offer an award for leadership in diversity and inclusion: Studies show that diverse companies are 35% more likely to have financial returns above their national industry medians. 

By recognizing leaders who are champions of diversity and inclusion, you encourage others to follow in their footsteps, contributing to a more equitable, innovative, and successful organization.

Award name suggestions

• Best Diversity Leader Award.
• The Best in Equity Award.
• Best in Inclusion Leadership Award.

8. Safety and wellness advocate award

The safety and wellness advocate award is designed to honor employees who are steadfastly dedicated to promoting a safe and healthy work environment. 

Awardees of this category actively participate in safety programs, wellness initiatives, and are often the first to respond when a colleague is in need. 

Why you should offer an award to safety and wellness advocates: A study by the National Safety Council found that each prevented lost-time injury or illness saves an employer an average of $37,000.

Offering this award demonstrates the company’s commitment to employee health and safety, while encouraging others to take an active role in these areas.

Tip: Consider complementing this award with wellness-related swag to further emphasize the importance of health and safety in the workplace. 

Award name suggestions

• The Health Hero Award.
• The Workplace Safety Advocate Award.
• Best in Safety and Wellness Advocacy Award.

9. Professional development advocate award

The professional development advocate award celebrates employees who are passionately dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organization.

These individuals nurture the professional growth of their colleagues, providing guidance, resources, and encouragement to help them reach their full potential.

Why you should offer an award to professional development advocates: A report by LinkedIn highlighted that 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their career development. 

Recognizing and rewarding advocates of professional development sends a clear message that the organization values employee growth, leading to increased job satisfaction, retention, and attracting top talent.

Award name suggestions

• The Skill Builder Award.
• The Learning Leader Award.
• The Professional Development Advocate Award.

10. Positive attitude award

The positive attitude award is a heartfelt acknowledgment of the employees who bring a burst of positivity, and enthusiasm to the workplace — regardless of the challenges they face. 

Recipients of this award are the sunshine on a cloudy day; they lift spirits, motivate their colleagues, and contribute to a supportive and uplifting work environment.

Why you should offer an award for a positive attitude: A study by the University of Warwick found that happy employees are up to 12% more productive.

Recognizing and rewarding individuals who contribute to a positive atmosphere not only validates their efforts but also encourages others to adopt a similarly optimistic outlook. 

Award name suggestions

• The Most Radiant Employee Award.
• The Sunshine Rockstar Award.
• The Positivity Ambassador Award.

11. Adaptability award

The adaptability award recognizes and celebrates the employees who view change not as a hurdle, but as an opportunity for growth and innovation. 

They are the problem solvers, the quick thinkers, and the resilient individuals who maintain their composure in the face of uncertainty. 

Why you should offer an award for adaptability: McKinsey found that organizations with higher adaptability to change report 2.1x higher operational resilience and 3x higher growth.

Recognizing and rewarding adaptability fosters an organizational culture that is better equipped to navigate change and enhances the ability to stay relevant in a constantly changing market.

Award name suggestions

• The Most Adaptable Employee Award.
• The Change Champion Award.
• The Evolutionary Employee Award.

12. Community engagement award

The community engagement award recognizes employees who go above and beyond their professional duties to make a positive impact on the broader community. 

Recipients of this award represent the company’s values outside the workplace, strengthening the organization’s reputation and connection with the community. 

Why you should offer an award for community engagement: According to a study, 87% of consumers will patronize a company when it supports a cause they care about. 

By recognizing and celebrating community engagement, companies can boost their brand image, while encouraging a sense of purpose and fulfillment among employees. 

Award name suggestions

• The Community Champion Award.
• The Civic Hero Award.
• Best in Community Engagement Award.

13. Company values award

The company values award honors employees who demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to the company’s values in their work and interactions with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. 

Their actions reflect positively on the organization, enhancing its reputation both internally and externally.

Why you should offer an award to those who support company values: According to Gallup, only 27% of employees strongly believe in their company’s values, making it crucial to highlight and celebrate those who truly live by them. 

Recognizing and rewarding employees who demonstrate company values plays a critical role in reinforcing those values across the organization.

Award name suggestions

• The Culture Champion Award.
• Best in Company Values Award.
• The Integrity Icon Award.

14. Going above and beyond award

This award recognizes and celebrates employees who consistently surpass expectations, exhibit unparalleled dedication, and strive to contribute more than is required in their roles. 

Recipients of this award often go the extra mile to ensure that projects are not just completed, but are executed to the highest possible standard. 

Why you should offer an award to those who go above and beyond: Workers are more likely to repeat a specific action after receiving recognition for it.

By highlighting the efforts of these exceptional individuals, they’re motivated to maintain their high performance and it also inspires others to elevate their own work standards. 

Award name suggestions

• The Excellence Extraordinaire Award.
• The Outstanding Performer Award.
• The Best in Work Dedication Award.

15. Employee choice award

This award empowers team members to voice their opinions and celebrate the peers they believe stand out in demonstrating the company’s ethos and culture. 

This peer-driven award improves the authenticity of the award, as it comes directly from the individuals who interact with the nominee daily.

Why you should offer an award for this: According to People Pulse, organizations using strategic recognition programs are 48% more likely to report high staff engagement.

Involving employees in the recognition process serves to strengthen the sense of community and belonging among employees within your organization.

Award name suggestions

• Teammate of the Year Award.
• The People’s Choice Excellence Award.
• The Employees’ Choice Award.

16. Years of service award

This award serves as a public recognition of an employee’s dedication, perseverance, and significant contributions over the years. 

Recognizing long-term employees often comes with a sense of nostalgia, as it reflects on the employee’s journey, growth, and the changes they have witnessed and adapted to. 

Why you should offer an award for years of service: According to research, 87% of HR leaders consider improved retention as a critical priority.

Celebrating long-term service or work anniversaries is a positive example for newer employees, highlighting the potential for growth and stability within the organization.

Award name suggestions

• Most Loyal Employee Award.
• The Legacy Diamond Award.
• Dedication Tribute Award.

17. Employee of the year award

The employee of the year award celebrates an individual who has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance, dedication, and a strong alignment with the company’s values. 

This award isn’t just about employee achievements; it’s about recognizing someone who uplifts the entire team and contributes to the success of those around them.

Why you should offer an award to the employee of the year: Offering an employee of the year award helps in fostering a culture of high performance, motivating other employees to strive for excellence. 

The award also enhances employee engagement, as it demonstrates the company’s values and rewards hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance.

Award name suggestions

• The Apex Achiever Award.
• Stellar Employee of the Year Award.
• The Peak Performer Award.

Types of Employee Recognition Awards

Employee recognition awards come in various forms, catering to different preferences and motivations. Here are some employee award ideas for you to try:

Monetary awards

Monetary awards are tangible employee incentives that provide direct financial benefits in the form of bonuses, gift cards, or salary raises — making them highly attractive to many employees.

Non-monetary awards

Non-monetary rewards can range from heartfelt thank-you notes to thoughtful corporate swag, such as branded merch. 

Corporate swag, in particular, offers a lasting token of employee appreciation that serves as a physical reminder of the employee’s valued contributions. 

Tip: By setting up a pop-up shop, you can give employees more autonomy to choose their preferred items, adding a personalized touch.

Individual awards

These awards are given to single employees for their exceptional work, dedication, or innovation, acknowledging their personal contributions to the company.

Team-based awards

These teamwork awards celebrate the collective efforts of a group, thereby fostering teamwork and strengthening team bonds.

Service awards

These awards are ideal for recognizing employees for their years of service to the company. It’s a great way to pay tribute to the long-term commitment and loyalty of your employees. 

Performance awards

These awards are ideal for recognizing exceptional achievements, while setting a high bar for excellence and spurring motivation across the workforce. 

They are perfect for praising stellar performance and encouraging a culture of high achievement and excellence.

With that said, let’s explore the best practices to ensure that these awards are perceived as fair and meaningful by your workforce.

Recognition Awards Best Practices

Ensuring your employee recognition awards program is impactful and meaningful requires careful consideration and implementation of best practices. Here’s how you can make it stand out:

• Consistent and regular recognition: Consistently acknowledge your team’s hard work. For example, a ‘Friday Shout-Out’ in a team meeting can go a long way in making recognition a regular affair.
• Establish a transparent and fair selection process: For instance, you could have a nomination form explaining why an employee deserves a specific award.
• Inclusive and diverse recognition: Strive for a recognition program that recognizes employees from all walks of life and departments. A ‘Rising Star’ or ‘Most Creative’ award could be a great option, available to everyone regardless of their tenure or level.
• Involve employees in the process: For example, you can create a short survey to understand what types of recognition are most meaningful to them.
• Align with company core values: Align employee award titles with core values. For instance, if innovation is a key value, an ‘Innovator of the Month’ award could reinforce its importance.
• Publicly recognize achievements: For example, you can dedicate a portion of your monthly all-hands meeting to recognizing outstanding employees or highlight them in social media posts.
• Personalize: Provide personalized employee rewards like custom gifts or take it a notch higher by allowing employees to choose their prizes through pop-up shops.
• Celebrate and add storytelling: Use award ceremonies to share stories about the winners’ contributions — so they also serve as inspiration for others.

Next, let’s explore how you can effectively measure the success of your employee recognition initiatives in delivering the desired impact.

How to Measure the Effectiveness of an Employee Recognition Program

Understanding whether your employee recognition program is hitting the mark is crucial for its ongoing success and improvement. Here’s how to measure its effectiveness:

• Run employee surveys: Regularly collect feedback directly from employees through surveys or feedback sessions. Ask about their satisfaction with the recognition program and any suggestions for improvement.
• Evaluate engagement levels: An effective recognition program should correspond with higher engagement, productivity, and morale.
• Monitor participation rates: Look at how many employees are actively participating in the recognition program, both as recipients and nominators. High participation indicates a successful program.
• Analyze retention and turnover rates: Popular recognition programs contribute to lower turnover and higher retention.
• Assess performance metrics: If there’s a noticeable improvement in performance and productivity following recognitions and awards, then that indicates a successful program.

Now, let’s see how you can keep your employee recognition program fresh and exciting.

Find Great Ideas for Employee Recognition Awards

We’ve covered why employee recognition awards matter, the types of awards available, best practices for implementation, and how to measure their effectiveness. 

You’re now well-equipped to curate a program that resonates with your team, fosters positivity, and boosts productivity.

For a personalized touch of employee appreciation, consider thoughtful gifts that provide a tangible way to show your gratitude and make your employees feel valued. 

Feeling inspired? Discover the perfect gifts to express your gratitude and celebrate your team’s achievements on SwagDrop. 

Happy celebrating!