10 Greatest Worker Recognition Instruments I Suggest For Higher Engagement

Just a few days earlier than our quarterly all-hands, we realized we had an issue.

Recognition was occurring, nevertheless it was scattered. Some managers despatched emails, others gave fast shoutouts throughout group conferences, and some unbelievable contributions slipped via the cracks. 

That’s once I determined to discover a correct worker recognition platform to suggest to our worker success group.

I already knew what these instruments may do—streamline recognition, make it seen, tie it to firm values—however I wished to seek out the one that might really match how we work.

I spent hours studying G2 critiques, evaluating options, and studying how corporations had been utilizing these platforms not only for recognition, however to strengthen tradition, enhance engagement, and hold momentum excessive.

If you happen to’re in the identical place, on the lookout for a device that not solely meets the factors but in addition has an influence, hold studying. 

My high 10 worker recognition software program suggestions for 2025

One of the best worker recognition software program is designed to assist organizations construct a tradition of appreciation, enhance engagement, and enhance retention. As I evaluated these instruments, I noticed firsthand how they streamline peer-to-peer recognition, present prompt suggestions, and create a clear system for celebrating achievements throughout all ranges.

What makes worker recognition  software program value it: My opinion

• Facilitate rewarding staff with reward playing cards, tangible presents, or messages of recognition
• Include a portal for managing the popularity course of
• Automate interactions or notifications for often occurring moments of recognition

This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some critiques have been edited for readability.

1. Workhuman Social Recognition

Workhuman Social Recognition Program stands out as an efficient device for worker recognition and celebrating milestones.

A recurring theme I’ve observed in person critiques is how straightforward the platform makes the popularity course of. Many G2 reviewers recognize how shortly they will acknowledge their colleagues’ skilled achievements or private milestones. The simplicity of the popularity function is persistently highlighted as a key think about guaranteeing that it turns into a daily a part of the work tradition moderately than simply an occasional gesture.

One other facet that receives numerous optimistic suggestions is the number of merchandise and reward card choices obtainable within the retailer. G2 customers steadily reward the wide selection of decisions, which makes it simpler to seek out one thing that fits their preferences. Many point out how the pliability to decide on between bodily objects and digital reward playing cards enhances the expertise, permitting staff to pick out rewards they honestly need.

I’ve additionally come throughout a number of G2 critiques mentioning the Single Signal-On (SSO) integration, which many customers recognize for streamlining the login course of. In line with the suggestions, having the ability to entry the platform instantly via the corporate’s SSO saves time and eliminates the necessity to keep in mind further credentials. This function is broadly seen as a time-saver and an enchancment to the general person expertise.

The user-friendliness of the Workhuman platform is one other level that stands out within the critiques. From what I’ve seen in G2 suggestions, the platform is simple to implement and has an intuitive interface. Many reviewers emphasize that there isn’t a steep studying curve, making it accessible to customers with various ranges of technical experience. This ease of use is steadily talked about as one of many platform’s strongest factors.

Nonetheless, G2 critiques additionally spotlight some areas for enchancment. For instance, a number of customers point out the order cancellation course of as a draw back. In line with suggestions I’ve gathered, some customers had been annoyed by the dearth of a self-service choice to cancel orders. As an alternative, they needed to contact buyer assist, although many reviewers famous that assist was fast to reply and resolve the problem. Regardless of this, customers really feel {that a} self-service cancellation possibility would enhance the expertise.

One other piece of suggestions I’ve seen in a number of critiques is expounded to redeeming factors. Customers have expressed issue differentiating between comparable objects, notably when similar merchandise seem in several colours however aren’t grouped collectively. A number of reviewers have urged that organizing these things extra clearly would make it simpler to make assured and fast decisions. That is an space that may very well be refined for a smoother person expertise.

What I dislike about Workhuman Social Recognition:

• I’ve observed that customers have talked about frustration with the dearth of a self-service possibility for order cancellations, although assist is fast to resolve the problem.
• I’ve acquired suggestions from customers who wrestle to distinguish between comparable objects when redeeming factors, suggesting that higher group would improve the expertise.

What G2 customers dislike about Workhuman Social Recognition:

“When redeeming factors, it is generally onerous to know precisely what the distinction between a few of the objects is. It could be good to have “similar objects” (e.g., identical factor however in several colours) grouped collectively so I can simply choose the one I need with confidence.”

– Workhuman Social Recognition Assessment, Joshua N.

2. Awardco

Awardco is steadily praised for its worker flexibility in redeeming rewards. I’ve observed that G2 customers usually spotlight how this function units the platform other than conventional reward programs. As an alternative of managers choosing presents which may not be interesting to staff, Awardco permits people to decide on rewards that resonate with them. 

One other generally appreciated function, in response to G2 reviewers, is the capacity to construct recognition applications inside firm budgets. Many customers recognize how straightforward it’s to create contests and recognition applications that keep throughout the present funds, with out the necessity for submitting particular person expense stories. I steadily see G2 reviewers spotlight how this protects time and simplifies the method of rewarding staff whereas maintaining all the pieces inside monetary parameters. It additionally provides to the general optimistic expertise for managers and staff alike.

G2 reviewers additionally usually specific excessive satisfaction with Awardco’s non-monetary rewards and peer-to-peer recognition capabilities. From what I’ve seen, these options are notably appreciated for reinforcing worker engagement. The flexibility to acknowledge colleagues for his or her contributions, with out financial compensation, has fostered a optimistic and supportive office tradition in lots of organizations. I’ve learn a number of critiques mentioning how these small acts of recognition make staff really feel valued, reinforcing a way of group inside groups.

One facet that stands out in G2 critiques is Awardco’s buyer assist. I’ve steadily come throughout reviewers praising the velocity and professionalism of the assist group. Customers point out that after they’ve encountered points, the assist group has been fast to resolve them, and their effectivity has been a significant promoting level for the platform. From what I’ve gathered, the customer support facet is among the causes many customers really feel assured in recommending Awardco to others.

Nonetheless, primarily based on my evaluation of G2 person suggestions, the dearth of a cell app is a recurring concern. Many customers point out that, in at this time’s mobile-driven world, the absence of an app limits the platform’s accessibility. I’ve seen a number of G2 reviewers specific that having a cell app would tremendously improve person engagement, making it simpler for workers to test and redeem rewards and take part in recognition applications on the go.

I’ve additionally observed some dissatisfaction round bulk worker recognition. G2 customers usually point out that whereas Awardco excels at particular person recognition, the method of acknowledging giant teams of staff may be inefficient. I’ve learn critiques indicating that the platform may benefit from extra streamlined processes for managing mass recognition initiatives, which might save managers useful time and make it simpler to handle large-scale recognition efforts.

Lastly, a number of customers have talked about difficulties with redeeming factors onto a VISA card. I’ve come throughout suggestions stating that this course of may be considerably cumbersome, with customers experiencing delays and back-and-forth communication with third-party distributors. Whereas these points are sometimes resolved, I’ve seen reviewers specific frustration concerning the lack of a seamless expertise, and plenty of want to see enhancements on this space to make sure smoother transactions sooner or later.

What I dislike about Awardco:

• I’ve come throughout recurring suggestions from customers who point out the dearth of a cell app, limiting accessibility and engagement for workers on the go.
• I’ve learn a number of critiques the place customers expressed frustration with bulk worker recognition processes and urged enhancements for managing large-scale initiatives extra effectively.

What G2 customers dislike about Awardco:

“I believe it will be useful to slender the broader classes into a number of sub-categories, so that you don’t should look via so many pages to seek out what you’re on the lookout for. Additionally, I want there was a method to purchase additional factors to cowl the distinction if the reward you need prices extra factors than you’ve earned.”

– Awardco Assessment, Aaron G.

3. Nectar

After reviewing Nectar, I can confidently say it gives a singular and rewarding expertise for each staff and managers.

One function that stands out in G2 critiques is the month-to-month reload of factors, which I’ve seen G2 customers recognize for giving managers the pliability to distribute factors often. From my evaluation, this function is extremely considered it ensures recognition feels constant and permits managers to repeatedly reward staff for his or her ongoing efforts. It’s an effective way to take care of worker motivation over time.

One other function that I steadily see praised in G2 critiques is the big variety of reward card choices. Customers recognize the broad number of retailers, which permits staff to decide on rewards that swimsuit their private preferences. Primarily based on my evaluation of G2 suggestions, this vary of choices makes the reward system extra interesting, because it provides staff extra freedom to pick out rewards that really feel actually useful to them.

One function I additionally observed getting optimistic consideration in G2 critiques is the low cost part. Many customers discover it helpful to have the ability to use factors for reserving motels, leases, and tickets for sights. G2 reviewers usually point out how this added dimension to the rewards program makes the factors really feel much more useful by providing experiences outdoors of labor. This function provides additional flexibility, which, in response to customers, is an effective way to make the rewards really feel extra substantial and rewarding past simply reward playing cards.

One other facet that I’ve seen G2 customers spotlight is Nectar’s user-friendly interface. From the suggestions I gathered, many reviewers recognize how intuitive the platform is to make use of, making it straightforward for each managers and staff to navigate with out technical experience. I’ve learn a number of critiques noting that the easy design and ease of use are important promoting factors, as they permit for fast adoption and easy operation throughout groups.

Nonetheless, primarily based on G2 critiques, account entry points appear to be a typical grievance. I’ve come throughout a number of customers mentioning challenges reminiscent of being locked out of their accounts, particularly when trying to redeem reward playing cards. This frustration appears to be a recurring theme, and a number of other reviewers urged that the platform may benefit from extra accessible steerage or tutorials to resolve points extra easily, moderately than requiring customers to hunt exterior assist.

One other level of suggestions I’ve observed from G2 customers is the restricted number of rewards for smaller companies. Whereas many customers reward the provision of rewards from bigger corporations, some reviewers have expressed a need for choices that assist native or impartial companies. Primarily based on my evaluation of G2 suggestions, customers really feel that providing rewards from smaller, community-based companies may add a extra private contact to the rewards program, aligning with the values of corporations that intention to assist native enterprises.

What I dislike about Nectar:

• I’ve come throughout recurring suggestions about account entry points, with customers expressing frustration over being locked out, particularly when redeeming reward playing cards.
• I’ve learn critiques the place customers talked about the restricted number of rewards for smaller companies, suggesting a need for choices that assist native or impartial enterprises.

What G2 customers dislike about Nectar:

“I desire not having factors expire month-to-month. This usually results in folks handing out factors solely on the finish of the month to make use of them up, which can not at all times really feel like real appreciation.”

– Nectar Assessment, Ginger O.

4. Bonusly

Bonusly is commonly praised for its partaking strategy to worker recognition. I’ve seen G2 reviewers persistently spotlight how the platform permits staff to be acknowledged and rewarded with factors, which may be redeemed for presents. Customers steadily point out how this makes recognition extra interactive and tangible, permitting staff to really feel actually appreciated for his or her contributions.

Many G2 customers additionally appear to benefit from the simplicity and effectiveness of the point-based system, which provides a enjoyable component to office recognition.

One other facet that G2 customers appear to essentially recognize is the reward catalogue. From what I’ve seen in a number of critiques, the number of rewards obtainable is an enormous promoting level. Bonusly gives a complete number of presents from high shops throughout main nations, together with Amazon and Flipkart. G2 reviewers usually point out that this flexibility ensures staff can discover significant rewards, regardless of the place they’re primarily based.

Customers steadily name out the worldwide attain and relevance of the reward choices as a key profit, guaranteeing that staff worldwide can take pleasure in this system.

I’ve additionally observed that the reporting and analytics options are often highlighted in optimistic critiques. Many G2 customers point out that Bonusly supplies detailed insights into worker engagement, permitting managers to trace which rewards are being distributed and the way usually staff are recognizing one another. 

Nonetheless, from my evaluation of G2 suggestions, evidently there are a number of challenges with the platform as effectively. One challenge that retains developing is the month-to-month factors allotment. I’ve learn a number of reviewers point out that they run out of factors pretty shortly, which may be irritating after they need to proceed recognizing staff however have already hit their month-to-month restrict. 

One other level I’ve seen talked about by G2 customers is the navigation of administrative reporting options. Though Bonusly’s analytics are typically well-regarded, some reviewers specific frustration with how tough it may be to seek out particular stories on the admin web page. Many customers notice that the abundance of tabs could make it difficult to shortly entry the information they want, particularly when time is of the essence

What I dislike about Bonusly:

• A standard frustration I’ve encountered is the month-to-month factors allotment. Many customers point out that they run out of factors shortly, limiting their capacity to proceed recognizing staff throughout the month.
• I’ve learn a number of critiques the place customers expressed issue navigating the executive reporting options, with the abundance of tabs making it more durable to entry particular knowledge shortly, particularly when time is essential.

What G2 customers dislike about Bonusly:

“The one challenge I’ve now’s that when redeeming smaller quantities of factors, it doesn’t provide choices on a few of the extra in style procuring platforms like Amazon.

– Bonusly Assessment, Syed M.

5. Vantage Circle

Vantage Circle is steadily acknowledged for its ease of reward transfers. Many G2 reviewers spotlight how shortly and effectively rewards may be transferred with only a click on, which streamlines the whole course of. This function appears to be a standout for customers, because it ensures staff obtain their rewards with none delays.

A number of customers additionally recognize how the mixing of Vantage Circle inside Airtel’s system has simplified the popularity course of, making it extra accessible to everybody throughout the group.

One other facet that comes up in G2 critiques is the platform’s user-friendliness. From what I’ve seen in person suggestions, reviewers persistently reward how straightforward it’s to navigate and use, even for many who aren’t notably tech-savvy. This ease of use is commonly famous as a key think about encouraging worker engagement, making it much less intimidating for workers to work together with the platform. The intuitive design seems to be a big benefit in fostering seamless and hassle-free recognition.

One function that I steadily see getting optimistic suggestions is the flexibility to transform reward factors into money playing cards. G2 customers appear to essentially recognize this flexibility, particularly the wide selection of choices obtainable, together with in style apps like Amazon and Domino’s.  From what I’ve gathered, this function permits staff to pick out rewards that align with their private preferences, which provides important enchantment and customization to this system. The variability and suppleness in redeeming factors are persistently highlighted as one of many key advantages by customers.

Nonetheless, primarily based on suggestions I’ve reviewed, there are a number of areas the place some G2 customers really feel there may very well be enchancment. One widespread suggestion is to extend the provision of coupons from native manufacturers.

Whereas the platform already gives nice rewards, I’ve seen a number of customers specific a need for extra offers from native companies. This addition wouldn’t solely make the platform extra engaging but in addition create a extra customized expertise for workers by providing rewards from on a regular basis, regional manufacturers.

One other level of criticism I’ve come throughout is expounded to the cell app expertise. Many G2 customers point out that whereas the platform works effectively on desktop, the cell app may use some optimization for a smoother and extra fluid person expertise. Reviewers usually recommend enhancements to make the app simpler to navigate, guaranteeing that accessing rewards on the go is extra handy and satisfying for customers.

What I dislike about Vantage Circle:

• A number of customers have urged that rising the provision of coupons from native manufacturers would improve the platform’s enchantment, providing a extra customized expertise with rewards from regional companies.
• I’ve learn a number of critiques the place customers expressed frustration with the cell app, mentioning that it may benefit from optimization to supply a smoother and extra handy expertise for accessing rewards on the go.

What G2 customers dislike about Vantage Circle:

“The restricted customization choices in sure areas, such because the rewards catalog and localized gives.”

– Vantage Circle Assessment, Abhishek Ok. 

6. Guusto

Guusto’s versatility is one of many platform’s most steadily praised options. G2 customers persistently spotlight its effectiveness as a device for recognizing and rewarding staff, purchasers, and companions.

The flexibility to ship digital reward playing cards, which may be simply shared with people or groups, makes it a easy but impactful selection for companies seeking to present appreciation. Customers recognize the big variety of choices obtainable from Guusto’s companions, which provides a private contact to rewards.

One other function that G2 reviewers usually point out is how seamless the reward course of is. Many customers emphasize how fast and straightforward it’s to ship rewards, whether or not to at least one individual or a whole group. The platform’s simplicity is a typical level of reward, particularly relating to redeeming reward playing cards with one among Guusto’s many associate corporations.

I’ve learn a number of critiques the place customers point out the convenience of use, highlighting how, as soon as the account is about up, redeeming rewards doesn’t require any further info.

Nonetheless, I’ve come throughout noticeable dissatisfaction across the lack of computerized updates when a present card is used. A number of G2 customers point out that they should manually mark the cardboard as used throughout the platform, which may be time-consuming and complicated. This function appears to be an space the place customers are on the lookout for enchancment, as computerized monitoring would save time and guarantee a smoother expertise for each the giver and the recipient.

One other challenge that some customers increase on G2 is expounded to retailers who’re not obtainable however nonetheless seen on the platform. I’ve seen customers specific frustration about encountering retailers from whom they will not redeem rewards. Eradicating unavailable retailers from the platform utterly is a suggestion that many customers appear to agree with, as it will streamline the method and scale back confusion throughout the redemption course of.

What I dislike about Guusto:

• I’ve come throughout noticeable dissatisfaction across the lack of computerized updates when reward playing cards are used, which customers discover time-consuming and complicated.
• I’ve seen suggestions from customers annoyed by encountering retailers who’re not obtainable, suggesting that they must be faraway from the platform for a smoother expertise.

What G2 customers dislike about Guusto:

“The system wants higher search capabilities, as customers usually spend extreme time finding paperwork and previous discussions. The notification system generates an excessive amount of noise, so further customization choices would improve the expertise. Moreover, the cell person interface needs to be redesigned to accommodate board members with restricted tech expertise.”

– Guusto Assessment, Nia M.

7. Motivosity

What I dislike about Motivosity:

• I’ve observed a number of G2 customers specific a need for extra analytics and insights to enhance recognition efforts and determine unconscious bias.
• I’ve encountered suggestions from customers who discover the 30-day expiration interval for factors too restrictive, with many suggesting a rollover interval for better flexibility.

What G2 customers dislike about Motivosity:

“Some customers discover it difficult to completely customise recognition applications or combine the platform seamlessly with different instruments. For smaller organizations, the price of the platform is likely to be a priority, notably if they’re budget-conscious. Reaching constant and significant engagement may be tough if the platform is not actively used or if recognition is not built-in into day by day workflows. Moreover, some customers really feel that the analytics and reporting options may very well be extra strong to raised measure the influence of recognition applications. These are areas the place enhancements may doubtlessly improve the general expertise and effectiveness of the platform.” 

– Motivosity Assessment, Verified Person

8. Tradition Cloud by O.C. Tanner

What I dislike about Tradition Cloud by O.C. Tanner:

• I’ve observed a number of customers expressing frustration over transport delays, with many suggesting {that a} smoother and extra predictable transport course of would enhance the expertise.
• I’ve encountered suggestions concerning the purpose notification system. Customers need extra transparency, reminiscent of seeing who awarded the factors and any connected messages.

What G2 customers dislike about Tradition Cloud by O.C. Tanner:

“Want factors would lower as you add issues to your basket. When I’ve 5,000 factors and add one thing that’s 2,500 factors, I want the purpose rely on the high proper of the display screen would instantly replace to indicate me what I’ve left to spend.”

– Tradition Cloud by O.C. Tanner Assessment, Charlotte M.

9. Meeting

What I dislike about Meeting:

• I’ve come throughout a number of customers requesting an expanded reward catalog for worldwide groups, as the present choices might not swimsuit numerous geographical wants.
• I’ve learn suggestions from customers who discover the frequency of @everybody notifications overwhelming, with many suggesting extra management over these notifications to enhance the expertise.

What G2 customers dislike about Meeting:

“I want I may prioritize posts made by particular folks or filter by department location or division. This may assist me see info extra related to me, particularly when I’ve restricted time throughout the day to test Meeting posts.”

– Meeting Assessment, Ellexus M.

10. Workvivo

What I dislike about Workvivo:

• A number of reviewers have talked about the necessity for extra refined content material filters and notification settings, particularly for big groups with numerous roles.
• There’s noticeable dissatisfaction with the platform’s quantity of exercise, with customers calling for extra management over content material movement to keep away from feeling overwhelmed.

What G2 customers dislike about Workvivo:

“Whereas Workvivo is mostly glorious, it could possibly generally really feel a bit overwhelming with all of the options obtainable. It might take a while for brand spanking new customers to get absolutely snug, however when you get the hold of it, it’s very efficient.” 

– Workvivo Assessment, Moses A.

 

Worker recognition software program: Often requested questions (FAQs)

1. Which worker recognition software program is greatest for big enterprises?

Platforms like Workhuman and Bonusly are in style with giant enterprises because of their scalability, complete reward choices, and superior reporting and analytics options.

2. Which platform helps distant and hybrid groups greatest?

Bonusly and Nectar are perfect for distant or hybrid groups. They provide easy-to-use platforms with cell apps, real-time notifications, and integrations with communication instruments like Slack and Microsoft Groups.

3. Which instruments are greatest for small organizations or startups?

Guusto and Meeting are nice choices for small organizations or startups, providing inexpensive pricing, easy person interfaces, and customizable recognition applications with out pointless complexity.

4. Can worker recognition software program be built-in with different HR instruments?

Sure. Most worker recognition platforms are designed to combine seamlessly with different HR instruments, reminiscent of efficiency administration programs, payroll, and time monitoring software program. This integration helps streamline HR processes and ensures recognition is aligned with efficiency objectives and firm initiatives.

5. Can worker recognition software program be custom-made to suit firm tradition?

Sure. Many worker recognition platforms provide customization choices, permitting organizations to tailor the system to their distinctive tradition. This consists of customizing recognition classes, reward sorts, messaging, and person interface to align with firm values and objectives.

If solely there have been an award for awesomeness…

I’ve at all times liked the work tradition right here at G2, and now I notice that instruments like worker recognition software program have performed an enormous function in making our processes extra environment friendly and impactful.

These instruments transcend simply giving a “shout-out”—they empower groups to create a extra significant, constant, and accessible solution to acknowledge staff, which in the end strengthens the tradition.

I hope my insights assist you discover the very best worker recognition software program on your group. One that may make your staff need to speak about your online business all over the place they go.

Discover the greatest worker onboarding instruments and create a seamless, partaking expertise from day one.