6 Ideas to Write for Employee Recognition Awards

Are you looking for inspiration to recognise your employees?

Without the right words, even the most well-deserved awards can fall short of making an impact. But don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place.

At MedalStudio, we’ve spent years helping companies celebrate achievements through beautifully designed medals and awards. We know how the right recognition can motivate employees and make a difference.

That's why, in this article, we'll share 6 ideas to write for employee recognition awards:

1. Employee of the Year
2. Team Player
3. Rising Star
4. Sales Superstar
5. Creative Genius
6. The Lifesaver

Let's get started!

Award Ideas to Inspire Employees

Recognising and appreciating your employees for their effort and dedication can make a significant difference. According to a Gallup study, teams that are consistently recognised can increase their productivity by 10% to 20%.

To make awards truly meaningful, we recommend personalising them. There are many ways to do this. For instance, when giving a thank-you speech, you could highlight the recipient’s specific achievements. You might also engrave their name on the award or include an image that represents their contributions.

At MedalStudio, we offer a free personalised design service. We create a visual representation based on the images you provide. You can also add text or choose colours that best represent the award category.

If you’re unsure about which award categories to create to recognise your team, don’t worry. Here are six ideas to inspire you and help keep your team motivated:

#1 Employee of the Year

If you wish to recognise an employee who has excelled and shown consistency in their work, consider awarding them the "Employee of the Year" prize. This award not only highlights their hard work and dedication but can also serve as a motivation for them to continue growing and achieving new goals.

This award is one of the most prestigious that can be given, so it is important to present it with an introduction that highlights the winner's achievements and the challenges they have overcome along the way.

If you're looking for wording examples to make the presentation even more emotional, consider the following:

• [Name] has exceeded expectations and made a difference every single day. Thank you for your immense effort and dedication.
• Going above and beyond every single day, [Name] sets the gold standard for dedication and excellence in the workplace.

If you want to make a greater impact with the award, remember to personalise it and use materials that convey elegance.

In these cases, we recommend choosing awards made of acrylic, metal, wood or a combination. The blend of these materials can create a striking and memorable contrast.

#2 Team Player

Consider giving the "Team Player" award to that person who consistently collaborates with their colleagues and fosters unity with a positive attitude. This award should recognise someone who truly makes a difference within the team.

In addition to the award, you could ask other team members to record a video or write a brief message of appreciation for the recipient. This will not only make them feel valued but also help to maintain their motivation and commitment.

Here are some wording examples to make the recognition even more special:

• Thank you, [Name], for keeping our team united and celebrating every shared success.
• [Name]'s willingness to support colleagues and foster a sense of unity is what makes them an invaluable part of our team.

Remember, there are many ways to personalise the "Team Player" award. Beyond the traditional options, you could break away from the norm by gifting personalised medals, t-shirts, or snoods. These unique alternatives can make the recognition even more meaningful and memorable.

#3 Rising Star

Is there someone on your team who has demonstrated rapid growth and extraordinary potential? If so, now is the perfect time to recognise their hard work!

When writing this award, be sure to highlight their ability to adapt and learn quickly. It’s also important to mention specific projects where their contributions have truly stood out.

For example: [Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional initiative and a strong commitment to learning since joining our team. We are excited to see their continued growth and impact within the organisation!

Remember that nurturing a culture of appreciation can create a sense of belonging and can also strengthen employee engagement. In fact, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation found that 84% of employees experienced increased motivation upon receiving recognition for their work.

#4 Sales Superstar

If your company relies heavily on sales, the “Sales Superstar” award is an excellent way to motivate your team.

To determine the winner, consider defining the qualities that make someone a “Sales Superstar,” such as exceeding quotas, demonstrating consistent performance growth, or securing new business relationships.

For inspiration with wording, you might use something like: “Breaking records and setting new sales milestones, [Name] is the driving force behind our team's success.”

Be sure to recognise not only the revenue achievements but also the soft skills that contribute to these successes. By doing so, you can inspire your team and make everyone feel valued.

It’s also worth noting that recognition has the greatest impact when celebrated in front of colleagues. Consider organising a small gathering to honour your employee’s achievement. Don’t forget to make this part of a regular recognition programme—you may be surprised at how it boosts not only your sales but also the overall work environment.

#5 Creative Genius

The "Creative Genius" award is for employees who think outside the box and come up with highly original ideas. This award also recognises individuals who solve complex problems in an innovative way.

When presenting this award, we recommend highlighting specific examples of their creative contributions and the impact these have had on the business or team. Some wording examples you can use are:

• "[Name] transforms ideas into groundbreaking innovations. You inspire us all, thank you."
• "With a mind that never stops imagining, [Name] consistently delivers creative solutions to our toughest challenges. Your hard work is truly appreciated."

As this award is for a creative person, consider presenting it in an unconventional shape. For example, you could give an award in the form of a Golden Ticket or a star.

At MedalStudio, we offer a variety of customisable options so the "Creative Genius" winner can cherish this award for years to come.

#6 The Lifesaver

In the business environment, problems arise daily, but it is the talented employees who, with their dedication and skills, manage to find quick and effective solutions. That is why we believe it is crucial to recognise and celebrate their commitment.

Make sure to give the "The Lifesaver" award to the employee who has made an outstanding effort in solving a complex problem.

When presenting the award or medal, we recommend detailing the actions they took that made a difference. Also, thank them for their dedication in helping others.

You can use this text as an example: "[Name] proved to be a true lifesaver during [mention the situation]. Their quick thinking and unwavering support were key in overcoming the problem. We’re fortunate to have you on our team."

Remember that whether you are giving a prize or a medal, it is recommended that it be personalised. That is, try including the name of the winner and an inspiring phrase. You should also consider adding your company logo and colours.

The Power of Recognition

Recognising employees can foster a positive workplace culture, drive productivity, and spark inspiration. Remember, by personalising awards and highlighting specific accomplishments, you can make the recognition more impactful and memorable.

If you have any questions regarding our custom awards or medals, please do not hesitate to email us at [email protected] or call us at 01377250449.

Thank you!

Updated: 10/01/2025