Stand out with an award-winningOrganizations of all shapes and sizes chase the same dream of achieving brand recognition and employer credibility. You might think you have a great product, excellent customer service, and a thriving company culture. So, how do you prove it?
That’s where employer recognition awards come in.
These aren’t just shiny plaques on the wall. They’re proof that your workplace walks the talk, backed by a credible, third-party source.
What are employer recognition awards?
From regional and national recognition to industry and culture excellence awards, employer recognition programs highlight the best workplaces across the country. But here’s the catch: not all awards are created equal. Before you participate, it’s important to understand:
- How are the awards determined?
- Who’s eligible to participate?
- What benefits do the awards offer?
- Is the program confidential?
- Is there a cost to participate or win?
Six benefits of employer recognition awards
From strengthening your employer branding strategy to boosting employee loyalty, employer recognition awards deliver real, measurable advantages that help you attract, engage, and retain top talent. Here are six key benefits that show why employer recognition truly matters.
1. Awards strengthen your employer brand and reputation
Your employer reputation can make or break you. A strong reputation attracts top talent, loyal customers, and long-term investors. A weak one? It drives them away. Here’s why employer reputation matters:- 95% of consumers trust businesses with a positive reputation.
- 84% of job seekers consider reputation in career decisions.
- 76% of stakeholders believe market value is based on reputation.
- 69% of investors trust companies that put employees first.
Employer recognition awards serve as third-party validation that your employee experience is the real deal. These accolades say, loud and clear: “We’re not just a good place to work. We’re one of the best.” That message builds confidence among candidates, customers, and partners alike, reinforcing that your company delivers on its promises.
2. Awards unlock powerful media coverage and exposure
High-visibility awards — especially those published by leading media outlets — bring instant credibility to your organization. They open doors to press coverage, social buzz, and earned trust. They’re a credible way of telling the world you’re doing something right without having to say a word.
3. Awards elevate your recruitment strategy
Job seekers want more than a paycheck. They want proof that they’re making the right choice. Employer recognition awards act as instant credibility markers. When candidates see an award badge, it signals that your organization values people, embraces excellence, and offers a mission-driven environment where they can thrive. But it’s not just about perception; the results are real:- Companies with strong employer brands see 43% lower hiring costs.
- They also fill roles 20% faster than competitors.
In a crowded field, awards help your organization rise above the noise and draw in top-tier candidates who want to work for the best. Most importantly, you’ll attract talent aligned with your workplace culture and company values.
4. Awards boost employee morale
Recognition is one of the most powerful drivers of morale. When your organization earns an employer award, employees feel seen, valued, and celebrated — not just for what they do, but for who they are. That emotional lift creates a positive, energized culture where people are motivated to give their best and support one another.
5. Awards increase employee retention
Being part of an award-winning team gives employees a deeper sense of purpose and belonging. It affirms they’ve chosen the right company. That kind of emotional loyalty leads to longer tenure, stronger advocacy, and lower turnover.
6. Awards improve company performance
Awards based on authentic employee feedback — like those from Top Workplaces — do more than boost your reputation. They unlock powerful survey insights that help your organization grow. These programs serve a dual purpose:
- They celebrate what’s working, reinforcing cultural strengths.
- They spot areas for improvement, helping you focus where it matters most.
- And they give you an opportunity to close the loop with employees, showing them their voices matter.
The result? Leadership teams gain clear, actionable data to make smarter people decisions that strengthen culture, boost engagement, and drive better company performance.
How to choose the right employer awards program
Not all employer recognition award programs are alike. So, before you pursue earning employer recognition awards, do some homework to understand how different programs work, how awards are determined, and how they can benefit your organization. Here’s what to look for:
- Third-party credibility
- Confidentiality
- Awards based on employee feedback
- Clear ROI (recruitment boost, media visibility, brand validation)
- Regional, national, and industry-specific opportunities
The credible way to prove you’re a great place to work
Top Workplaces is the nation’s most credible employer recognition program because it is powered by employee feedback and featured by high-profile publishers like USA TODAY, the Washington Post, Boston Globe, Chicago Tribune, and more. If you’re ready to go beyond buzzwords and prove you’re a top employer, let Top Workplaces help you get there. There is no cost to:- Nominate your organization.
- Participate in the program.
- Win awards.
- Appear on Top Workplaces lists.
Plus, completing the employee survey once qualifies your company for all eligible awards within 12 months, including regional, national, culture excellence, and industry recognition. There are no downsides to participation, so let’s get started!
