Incentivizing sales teams is essential for maintaining high performance and motivation. While commissions have long been the standard, sales awards offer a lasting impact that goes beyond financial incentives. Recognition fosters deeper connections, strengthens company culture, and contributes to long-term loyalty.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between sales awards and commissions, the psychological impact of each, and why integrating awards into your recognition strategy can lead to higher retention and sustained performance.
Why Do Salespeople Need More Than Just Commissions?
1. The Role of Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation
Salespeople are naturally driven by financial incentives, but extrinsic rewards, like commissions, only go so far. Once the paycheck is deposited, the motivation can fade.
Intrinsic motivation, which comes from feeling valued and recognized, is what drives long-term engagement. Sales awards tap into this by publicly celebrating achievements, reinforcing an individual’s contributions beyond financial metrics.
A study by Gallup found that employees who feel recognized are 63% more likely to stay with their company for over three years compared to those who don’t receive meaningful recognition.
| Motivation Type | Impact | Example |
| Extrinsic Motivation | Short-term performance and quick wins | Commission-based incentives |
| Intrinsic Motivation | Long-term engagement and retention | Sales awards and public recognition |
2. Commissions Reward Performance, but Awards Build Identity
When a salesperson receives a commission, it acknowledges a single transaction. However, when they receive a custom sales award, it creates a lasting memory that reinforces their role as a top performer.
A company that implemented quarterly sales awards found that 88% of recipients displayed their awards in their office or at home. These trophies served as daily reminders of success, reinforcing commitment to high performance.
Key takeaway: Sales awards make achievements tangible, helping top performers stay engaged over time.
How Sales Awards Foster Long-Term Loyalty
1. Emotional Connection to Achievements
Unlike commissions, which are purely financial, custom sales awards create a meaningful emotional experience. Recognition provides validation and pride in an employee’s contributions, making them more committed to the company.
A real estate firm introduced a Sales Excellence Award for agents closing high-value deals. Agents who won were 47% more likely to stay at the company for three or more years, while those who only received commissions had a significantly higher turnover rate.
2. Sales Awards Reinforce a Culture of Excellence
A well-executed sales award program establishes a benchmark for success and encourages healthy competition. When employees see their peers being recognized with custom trophies or engraved plaques, they are motivated to strive for similar recognition.
A LinkedIn study on employee recognition found that:
- 91% of employees say that recognition makes them more likely to stay at their company.
- 72% of employees work harder when recognized for their performance.
3. Public Recognition vs. Private Financial Incentives
Sales awards create public recognition moments that reinforce a positive company culture. Whether it’s a company-wide awards ceremony or a feature on the company’s website, public appreciation strengthens an employee’s sense of belonging and accomplishment.
Effective Sales Award Ideas:
- Top Sales Performer Trophy – Recognizing the highest revenue generator
- Rookie of the Year Award – Encouraging new talent in the sales team
- Client Champion Award – Honoring salespeople who build strong customer relationships
Custom awards serve as lasting reminders of these achievements, creating long-term engagement and brand loyalty.
Blending Sales Awards and Commissions for Maximum Impact
While commissions and sales awards serve different purposes, combining both creates the most effective motivation strategy.
The Ideal Recognition Mix
| Incentive Type | Purpose | Best Use Cases |
| Commissions | Short-term motivation | Rewarding immediate sales wins |
| Sales Awards | Long-term engagement and loyalty | Recognizing milestone achievements |
Companies that implement both commissions and sales awards experience a 25% higher retention rate among their top salespeople.
How to Structure an Effective Sales Awards Program
- Set Clear Criteria – Define measurable achievements such as revenue goals and client satisfaction.
- Offer Personalized Awards – Customize trophies, plaques, and crystal awards with recipient names and achievements.
- Create a Recognition Culture – Publicly showcase winners through internal newsletters, company meetings, or social media.
- Maintain Consistency – Implement monthly, quarterly, or annual awards to keep motivation levels high.
Conclusion: Why Sales Awards Create Lasting Impact
While commissions drive short-term performance, sales awards reinforce a deeper emotional connection that keeps employees engaged for the long term.
A well-structured sales recognition program can:
- Improve employee retention and engagement
- Strengthen company culture
- Drive higher performance and motivation
If you’re looking for high-quality custom sales awards, Award Maven provides personalized crystal awards, trophies, and plaques designed to make every achievement truly memorable.
Start Recognizing Your Sales Champions Today
Explore our custom sales awards and create a recognition program that fosters long-term success. Contact us today for a custom quote.