Reference the work that led to the award. People like to know their peers saw the effort, not just the trophy.
How to write it
- Name the award and the work behind it.
- Celebrate publicly — awards are meant to be shared.
- Keep it generous; jealousy shows.
Warm congratulations
Congratulations on Employee of the Month! Nobody deserved it more.
So proud of you for winning the award — your work this year has been outstanding.
Congratulations! This recognition is long overdue.
Well deserved! The whole team is celebrating with you.
Congratulations on the award! You make us all look good.
Industry and external awards
Congratulations on your industry award! Amazing to see your work recognised beyond the company.
You’ve put us on the map. Congratulations!
What an achievement! We’re so proud to work with you.
Congratulations — the judges clearly have excellent taste.
Funny
Congratulations! Please don’t make the trophy your new monitor stand.
Award-winning colleague! We’ll expect a speech at lunch.
Congrats! I’d like to thank… you, for making the rest of us look busy.
Employee of the month? We’ll be expecting you to buy the coffee.
Short messages
Congratulations — well deserved!
So proud of you!
Award-winning and amazing.
Huge congrats!
What to avoid
- Comparing them to other nominees.
Organising the whole card? Our congratulations card guide covers timing and who to invite.