In today’s workplace, recognition often shows up as a thumbs-up on Slack or a public shoutout in the weekly company newsletter. We’re not here to diss on digital recognition, but we should be more aware of the fact that it feels a bit void of meaning.
This is even worse in companies that are going through a growth spurt. As more people join the chats and read the newsletters, your praise is quietly vanishing away, never to be heard of again.
Things are completely different with a trophy, a medal, or a plaque. You can proudly display these on your desk or office wall, and everyone, new or veteran, will understand their meaning. This is why tangible awards still matter to your employees and why you should reconsider your recognition strategy.
The Tangible Impact of Tangible Awards
You might be tempted to think that an acrylic award or a brass or steel medal doesn’t hold any real value. But to the people receiving them, these are not just some brick-a-bracks with the company logo on them; they are milestone markers.
Whether it’s a “Top Innovator” medal or a custom acrylic award for crushing quarterly goals, these tangible gestures show your people that their hard work is seen and appreciated. In fact, a study by O.C. Tanner found that 38% of employees feel more engaged and motivated when their efforts are clearly recognized.
Furthermore, the impact amplifies when the recognition is public and visible (as it happens with tangible awards). That’s something a disappearing Slack message just can’t compete with.
Physical awards serve as cultural artifacts. They live on desks, hang on walls, and show up in Zoom backgrounds. And when your team is doubling every six months, those reminders go a long way in reinforcing consistency and identity.
Loyalty and Retention
When a company is growing fast, some employees can feel like interchangeable parts. They may also feel like loyalty to the brand doesn’t matter, so they don’t bother sticking around for long.
But the right kind of recognition can turn things around. Each award type carries two stories: that of the employee’s achievements and that of the brand values. Therefore, the type of tangible award you’re willing to offer as a company teaches employees what to expect in the long run.
Here are a few examples:
- Years of Service Trophy – A classic award that shows your company’s appreciation for years of loyalty and good work. When selecting service trophies, look for good, sturdy materials that won’t get damaged with time. It’s another way to showcase your values.
- Milestone Achievement Plaque – These are great for major accomplishments like completing a big project, hitting long-term goals, or surviving a merger.
- Team MVP Award – This one can be a rotating monthly or quarterly trophy that recognizes consistent high performers. Think of it as your internal Hall of Fame.
- Innovation Award – A sleek, custom award for employees who offer creative solutions or spark real change.
In Summary
Tangible awards offer recognition, but they also anchor culture, boost loyalty, and reinforce values in fast-growth companies. Unlike digital praise, these physical symbols endure, motivating teams and strengthening brand identity long after the applause fades.
To read more content like this, explore The Brand Hopper
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