Awards are powerful symbols of achievement, milestones, and appreciation in the corporate world. However, the words etched onto those awards can make or break the entire recognition experience. Crafting the perfect inscription requires finesse, tact, and a keen understanding of professional etiquette.
At Award Maven, we believe in the power of words to elevate recognition. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to award wording etiquette, ensuring your inscriptions strike the right chord and leave a lasting impression.
The Dos of Award Wording:
- Be Specific and Sincere:
While phrases like “for your hard work” come from a good place, they can sometimes feel a bit general. Instead, pinpoint the specific accomplishments or qualities you’re recognizing. Did the employee exceed sales targets, lead a successful project, or consistently demonstrate exceptional teamwork? Be genuine in your praise, highlighting the unique impact the individual or team has made.
- Personalize it:
Incorporate the recipient’s name and any relevant titles or designations. A personalized inscription shows that you’ve taken the time to acknowledge their individual contributions. Consider adding a brief, personal touch, such as a nickname or a reference to a shared experience, to make the award even more meaningful.
- Keep it Concise and Clear:
While it’s important to be specific, avoid overly long or convoluted sentences. Aim for clarity and conciseness, using active voice and strong verbs to convey the message effectively. Remember, the inscription should be easy to read and understand at a glance.
- Align with Company Values:
Use the inscription to reinforce your organization’s core values. Whether it’s innovation, integrity, collaboration, or customer focus, highlight how the recipient’s actions exemplify those values. This not only recognizes the individual but also reinforces the desired culture within your company.
- Consider the Occasion:
Tailor your wording to the specific event or achievement being celebrated. A service award inscription might focus on loyalty and dedication, while a sales award could emphasize goal achievement and exceeding expectations. Understanding the context will help you craft a message that resonates.
The Don’ts of Award Wording:
- Avoid Clichés and Jargon:
Phrases like “going above and beyond” or “thinking outside the box” have become overused and lack impact. Strive for originality and use language that is fresh and engaging. Similarly, avoid industry-specific jargon that might not be understood by everyone.
- Steer Clear of Inside Jokes:
While a touch of humor can be appropriate, avoid inside jokes that might not be understood by everyone present at the ceremony or by future generations who may view the award.
- Don’t Focus Solely on the Outcome:
While recognizing achievements is important, also acknowledge the effort, dedication, and perseverance that led to those results. This creates a more holistic and meaningful recognition experience.
- Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!
Typos and grammatical errors can diminish the impact of even the most well-intentioned inscription. Double-check your wording and have someone else review it before finalizing the engraving.
Examples of Award-Winning Inscriptions:
Let’s take a look at a few examples of well-crafted award inscriptions:
- “To [Name], for consistently exceeding expectations and inspiring others with your unwavering commitment to excellence.” (Focuses on specific qualities and impact)
- “In recognition of [Years of Service] years of dedicated service and loyalty to [Company Name]. Thank you for being an integral part of our team.” (Celebrates a service milestone and expresses gratitude)
- “Presented to [Team Name] for their outstanding collaboration and innovation in developing [Project Name]. Your teamwork has set a new standard for success.” (Recognizes a team achievement and highlights their specific contribution)
At Award Maven, we understand that the right words can make all the difference. Our team of experts can help you craft personalized inscriptions that perfectly capture the spirit of your recognition program. Whether you’re looking for classic elegance or modern flair, we offer a wide range of awards and engraving options to suit your needs.
Remember, an award is more than just a physical object; it’s a symbol of appreciation, achievement, and the values that define your organization. Choose your words wisely, and let Award Maven help you create recognition experiences that truly inspire. Contact Award Maven today and let us help you craft award-winning inscriptions that turn your awards into cherished symbols of achievement.