When someone, such as an employee, student or volunteer does something amazing like reaching a special milestone or passing a particularly difficult exam, it’s nice to recognise their achievement with a printed award certificate.
Award certificates are quick and easy to create, and they’re greatly valued by the person receiving them, so it’s important to choose your words wisely, as the receiver may wish to show theirs off to family and friends.
What should you write on an appreciation award certificate?
As most award certificates typically tend to be a letter, or A4 size (8.5 x 11 inches), space can be limited. So, when you’re planning what to write, remember to keep to the point and use short phrases.
The wording you choose should show your gratitude for their outstanding achievements. If you’re looking to vary the message on each certificate, here are some alternative phrases to ‘gratitude’:
- Appreciation
- Thanks
- Thank you
- Grateful
- Outstanding
- Contribution
- Recognition
- Acknowledgement
- Appreciation
- Effort
- Dedication
Words for an employee appreciation award
Here are some appreciation award examples to give you an idea on what to write to a staff member who has succeeded expectations.
- ‘In recognition for the dedication, hard work and support you’ve shown to your colleagues throughout 2019’.
- ‘In acknowledgement of your exceptional contribution to [Project/Department], we present this certificate to [Employee’s Name].’
- ‘In recognition of your tireless work ethic and dedication, we are proud to award this certificate to [Employee’s Name].’
- ‘With heartfelt thanks, we acknowledge the invaluable contributions made by [Employee’s Name] to [Company/Organisation].’
- ‘In recognition of your innovative ideas and visionary approach to [Specific Project or Task], we award this certificate to [Employee’s Name].’
Words for a student appreciation award
For a student, you may wish to put:
- ‘As acknowledgement of your focus and dedication throughout your time at University.’
- ‘For your outstanding contribution to [Project/Club/Team], we honour [Student’s Name] with this certificate of appreciation.’
- ‘For your pursuit of excellence and commitment to personal growth, we commend [Student’s Name] with this award.’
Words for a sports appreciation award
Commending a team member’s sportsmanship or excellence in their field is a great way to show your appreciation for their contributions to the sport. Here are some ideas on sports certificate wording:
- ‘For demonstrating exceptional skill and sportsmanship in [Name of Sport], this certificate is awarded to [Athlete’s Name].’
- ‘For setting a remarkable example of teamwork and leadership on and off the field, this certificate is awarded to [Athlete’s Name].’
- ‘This is to certify that [Athlete’s Name] has excelled in [Specific Skill or Attribute], setting a high standard for others to follow.’
- ‘For your resilience and determination in achieving personal and team goals, we commend [Athlete’s Name] with this certificate.’
- ‘In recognition of your exceptional achievements and setting a new record in [Event or Activity], we honour [Athlete’s Name].’
Hague’s professional printed award certificates
The wording you opt for carries a lot of meaning so take your time to ensure you get it right. While this is one of the most important parts of the certificate, it forms just a small part of the messaging. Other details that you should think about including are:
- Name of organisation presenting the certificate
- Title of the certificate
- Recipients name
- Location
- Date
- Name and signature of the person presenting the certificate
At Hague, we can advise you on the design and layout of your certificate printing, suggest ways to subtly include your brand colours into the design and offer guidance on additional points such as what font and paper to use.
If you’re looking for professionally printed award certificates for your business, school or charity, complete our online enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.
