Employee Recognition Letter Template (+ Sample Letters)

When employees exceed their work expectations, you should appreciate them. You can do this through an employee recognition letter that expresses your gratitude for their efforts and encourages them to keep working hard. The goal is to affirm that their achievements have not gone unnoticed. In essence, it gives them an example of the behavior they should reiterate in the future.

Recognition letters can be informal, semi-formal, or formal. An informal letter is sent to an employee by a coworker while a team leader sends a semi-formal one. On the other hand, formal letters are sent by managers or employers weekly, monthly, or annually.

When writing a formal recognition letter, you should maintain a professional tone. Here we review tips to help you draft this letter appropriately.

A recognition letter is an excellent way to inspire your employees. Here are some guidelines for writing an effective recognition letter. When drafting your letter:

• Be specific.  Mention the behavior or achievement you are praising.
• Use the appropriate tone.  If you are writing as a manager or employer, maintain a professional tone.
• Mention any awards.  Is the employee getting a gift, raise, or certificate? Mention it in the letter. You can also inform them of possible promotion(s).
• Be genuine.  Don’t praise the employee for something they did not do.
• Praise the employee’s positive attributes
• Add your contact information
• Proofread your letter and correct any errors

Drafting a recognition letter for every employee that does well can be time-consuming and tedious. Here is a template that you can customize to your needs and a sample for inspiration.

Appreciation Letter to Employee for Outstanding Performance

This letter is written to appreciate employees who have shown exceptional effort for a particular project. It is sent after the success of the project ad mentions the employee’s direct contributions towards it.

Above and Beyond Employee Recognition Letter

The purpose of this letter is to recognize employees who go beyond their call of duty. They may have taken up extra responsibilities, such as training recruits or working extra hours to meet a deadline.

Recognition Letter for a Job Well Done

A manager or employer sends this letter after the completion of a successful venture. It shows gratitude to anyone involved for their contribution to the success.

Award Letter for Employees to Recognize Success

An award letter details any monetary award, gift, or certificate earned by an employee due to their excellent work. It also describes any ceremony or function that will be held in honor of the awardee.

As an employer or manager, you have to maintain high morale in the workplace. The best way to achieve this is by recognizing, encouraging, and appreciating your subordinates’ hard work through a well-written employee recognition letter. When drafting the letter, make sure to time it around the behavior you are praising for maximum impact.