Employee Recognition Tools Grow Popularity with Free Templates and Challenge Coins

A free “Employee Favorite Things” template offers a two‑part system—a short preferences questionnaire and a team tracker spreadsheet—to help managers personalize recognition and avoid generic rewards. The template is intended to boost morale by letting employees specify how they like to be praised, what small treats they enjoy, and any dietary restrictions.

A recent podcast episode explains why tangible items such as custom challenge coins are increasingly used for employee recognition. Originating in the military, challenge coins are now adopted by law firms, tech startups, construction crews and sales teams. Studies cited from Gallup and Workhuman show that employees who receive frequent, physical recognition are 45 % less likely to leave within two years, highlighting the impact of tangible rewards on turnover.

Both approaches aim to make recognition more meaningful and lasting, offering alternatives to fleeting digital praise and encouraging stronger employee engagement.