At Matter, we understand that recognition should feel meaningful—not mechanical. While the word kudos is a workplace favorite for expressing appreciation, using it too often can start to feel repetitive or impersonal. That's why so many leaders and teammates find themselves asking: What's another word for kudos?
Finding another word for kudos helps you keep praise fresh, genuine, and tailored to the moment. Whether you're sending a shout-out in Slack, writing a note after a project milestone, or leading a team all-hands, your chosen language sets the tone for how valued someone feels.
This article offers a rich collection of alternatives to kudos, from professional and formal phrases to fun, creative expressions. By learning how and when to vary your recognition vocabulary, you'll make every acknowledgment feel more intentional—and far more impactful.
What is another word for kudos?
At some point, almost every team leader or peer asks: What's another word for kudos? While kudos is a powerful way to acknowledge hard work, using it exclusively can limit the personal impact of your message. Expanding your vocabulary brings freshness, depth, and authenticity to expressing admiration, recognition, and appreciation.
Whether you're drafting a performance review, posting in Slack, or highlighting a recent achievement, the words you choose matter. Language helps define the moment. It frames the effort and gives it weight. Swapping kudos for other meaningful expressions ensures your message feels considered, not routine.
Common synonyms for kudos and what they mean
Finding another word for kudos can help expand the way you recognize and celebrate achievements within your team. While kudos remains a powerful and familiar term, exploring related language allows you to better match the tone of each situation and personalize your messages. Understanding the kudos meaning and its role in fostering appreciation can help you craft recognition that feels more natural, sincere, and connected to your team's culture.
Here are some frequently used and effective alternatives to the word kudos:
- Applause – Ideal for public recognition and celebratory shout-outs.
- Respect – A sincere option for peer-to-peer or leadership praise.
- Compliments – Light and flexible; fits everyday messages.
- Acclaim – Adds drama and formality for standout contributions.
- Approval – Subtle yet affirming in structured communication.
- Commendation – Professional and ideal for formal reviews or awards.
- Gratitude – Heartfelt and particularly impactful in one-on-ones.
- Shout-out – Great for Slack and informal team-wide acknowledgments.
Using a variety of expressions can help keep your praise feeling genuine and relevant, especially when it is tied to specific actions or achievements. Combining terms thoughtfully—for example, offering compliments to highlight dedication or expressing respect for a peer's contributions—adds nuance and meaning to your recognition. For inspiration on how to adapt different words and phrases across roles, industries, and situations, exploring kudos examples can provide valuable ideas for making every message feel intentional and impactful.
Matching the language to the moment
When selecting an alternative to kudos, it is important to think about the tone, context, and audience for your message. The right word can reinforce the impact of your recognition and ensure it feels authentic to both your team's culture and the individual being celebrated. A thoughtful choice not only keeps your praise fresh but also strengthens the connection between appreciation and your company's values. When choosing an alternative to kudos, consider:
- Tone: Is the moment formal or casual? "Bravo" and "commendation" suit performance reviews, while "props" and "cheers" shine in Slack.
- Relationship: Use different expressions for peers, reports, and cross-functional teams. A direct report may respond better to "well deserved," while a teammate might appreciate a simple "shout-out."
- Setting: Whether it's a one-on-one, team meeting, or company-wide Slack channel, the right phrase can make praise feel more genuine.
The goal is not simply to find a replacement word but to express genuine value and contribution in a way that feels relevant to the individual and the moment. Offering kudos to the team is an effective way to recognize collective achievements while still honoring the unique efforts that made success possible.
Why variety in praise makes a difference
Relying too heavily on a single term like kudos can cause recognition to lose its impact over time. Introducing variety in how you express appreciation shows that you are actively noticing each person’s unique contributions rather than offering routine or automatic praise.
Shifting your language—using words like applause, commendation, or recognition—adds emotional depth to your messages. These small but intentional changes reinforce a workplace culture where acknowledgment feels genuine, thoughtful, and connected to the values your organization wants to celebrate.
Top 15 synonyms for kudos at work
In any workplace, finding fresh ways to express recognition can make your praise stand out—and feel more meaningful. If you're looking for another word for kudos, these 15 phrases offer many options to match the tone, occasion, and colleague relationship. Each synonym has its own flavor, from formal to fun, and each can be used to boost morale, express gratitude, and reinforce dedication in a way that's both memorable and motivating.
1. Bravo
It is a timeless expression of approval, often used to cheer someone on after a great presentation or a big win. It's enthusiastic and celebratory.
2. Props
Short, casual, and perfect for Slack or team chats. Saying "props" to a teammate shows quick appreciation without sounding overly formal.
3. Shout-out
Popular in digital workplaces, a "shout-out" is a great way to spotlight someone's hard work or teamwork in front of the group.
4. Hats Off
It's a slightly more classic phrase that works well in emails or meetings. It conveys deep respect and admiration for a job well done.
5. Applause
Whether literal or figurative, this word captures the sense of a crowd recognizing someone's effort. Great for teamwide or all-hands meetings.
6. Respect
This word carries emotional weight and is especially impactful when acknowledging leadership, integrity, or persistence.
7. Cheers
Simple, cheerful, and perfect for casual recognition. "Cheers" fits well into end-of-week recaps or when celebrating micro-wins.
8. Salute
It is best used when someone has gone above and beyond. "Salute" expresses admiration with a formal twist.
9. High Five
Fun and energetic, this one is ideal for Slack messages or recognition boards. It adds a personal touch to team celebrations.
10. Acclaim
Use this word to emphasize how widely recognized or praised someone's achievement was, especially across departments.
11. Commendation
A formal nod that fits reviews, award ceremonies, or emails to leadership. It reinforces a sense of earned respect and validation.
12. Appreciation
Perhaps the most heartfelt and universal alternative. Use it to thank someone for their contributions, especially behind-the-scenes efforts.
13. Compliments
A versatile phrase that works well in one-on-ones or feedback forms. It shows thoughtful expression and acknowledgment.
14. Accolade
A great word to celebrate major milestones or long-term dedication. It carries a high level of esteem and distinction.
15. Admiration
Perfect when recognizing personal values, growth, or mentorship. It adds a layer of emotional sincerity to any message.
When to use different synonyms for kudos
Choosing the right synonym for kudos is an opportunity to make recognition feel more intentional and connected to the moment. The words you select can shape how appreciation is received, influence the emotional impact of the message, and reflect the overall tone of your team or organization. Matching the right term to the situation ensures that recognition feels genuine, thoughtful, and aligned with your workplace culture.
- Tone of the workplace: In casual environments, terms like cheers or props might feel natural and energizing. In more formal settings, words such as commendation or applause maintain a tone of professionalism and respect.
- Type of achievement: Standout performances may call for stronger expressions like bravo or salute, while appreciation or compliments are better suited for acknowledging consistent, everyday contributions.
- Team dynamics: In collaborative teams, peer recognition often feels more genuine when paired with informal terms like shout-out or high five, creating a sense of camaraderie and connection.
Varying your language keeps recognition, feeling sincere, and specific to the moment. It avoids the risk of praise becoming routine and helps build stronger engagement by showing employees that their unique contributions are truly valued.
What's another word for kudos to you?
Recognition often feels most powerful when it comes through a simple, personal message—especially when directed to someone who has gone above and beyond. Finding the right words to express genuine appreciation can make all the difference in how that moment is received and remembered.
While direct expressions like kudos to you are meaningful, using thoughtful alternatives can make your praise feel even more sincere, specific, and lasting. Incorporating different phrases into emails, performance reviews, Slack messages, or team meetings helps ensure that recognition feels genuine and personal, strengthening both individual morale and overall team culture.
15 thoughtful alternatives to say "kudos to you"
Below are a variety of energetic, heartfelt, and authentic expressions you can use to personalize recognition and convey appreciation in place of kudos to you. Choosing the right phrase helps ensure your message feels thoughtful, genuine, and aligned with the achievement you are celebrating. Varying your language also keeps recognition fresh and meaningful, reinforcing a culture where every contribution is seen and valued.
- You nailed it!
- Job well done.
- You're amazing.
- Incredible work—seriously impressive.
- You crushed it!
- Major props to you.
- Outstanding job!
- You made a real difference.
- Way to go!
- That was top-tier execution.
- Truly inspiring effort.
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- Well earned and well deserved.
- You stepped up and delivered.
- We're lucky to have you.
These alternatives offer more emotional nuance than a generic "thanks" or "great work," and they make employee recognition feel more personal and intentional. When used genuinely, they acknowledge achievement and reinforce the value someone brings to the team.
Personal praise vs. public team recognition
Choosing whether to deliver recognition privately or publicly can significantly influence its impact. The context in which appreciation is shared—whether in a one-on-one message or a team-wide announcement—shapes how it is received and remembered. Understanding when to recognize individuals personally and when to highlight accomplishments in a public setting helps ensure that each message feels intentional, respectful, and meaningful.
- Use personal recognition in one-on-one chats, performance feedback, or handwritten notes. This is especially meaningful for introverted employees or for celebrating efforts that may have gone unnoticed by the broader team.
- Use public recognition in team channels, Slack shout-outs, or company-wide meetings. Highlighting someone's success in front of peers boosts visibility and builds team morale.
Both approaches matter. A thoughtful mix of private and public acknowledgment shows that you're paying attention—and that you understand how different personalities experience recognition.
No matter how it's delivered, the key is making it feel sincere. Recognition shouldn't sound robotic or copy-pasted. Even minor tweaks in wording help communicate genuine admiration and encourage people to keep doing their best work.
When to use personal praise vs. public recognition
Understanding the difference between personal and public recognition allows you to tailor your approach to the moment and the individual. Some achievements call for quiet, direct acknowledgment, while others deserve broader visibility to reinforce team values and inspire others. Choosing the right setting ensures that your recognition feels both authentic and appropriate, strengthening its overall impact.
- Use personal praise for more intimate moments—think one-on-one messages, private feedback, or a note tied to a personal milestone. These quiet moments of appreciation can feel even more powerful.
- Use public team recognition in teamwide Slack channels, meetings, or newsletters to amplify someone's contribution and show others what excellence looks like.
The key is choosing language that fits the moment and the person. Some people thrive on public appreciation, while others prefer more understated acknowledgment. No matter the setting, it's the sincerity that resonates most. Want more creative ideas to vary your messages? Explore different kudos cards that align with tone, values, and personality—so your praise always lands with meaning.
Another word for congratulations kudos
Celebratory recognition is one of the most powerful ways to reinforce achievement and motivate continued success. It goes beyond simply acknowledging a job well done; it honors the significance of a milestone and the effort behind it. Whether you are celebrating a promotion, the launch of a major project, or the completion of an important goal, the language you choose should reflect the magnitude of the accomplishment. Finding another word for congratulations, or kudos, allows you to make your message feel even more personal, thoughtful, and connected to the moment.
While congratulations remain a widely appreciated expression, relying on it too often can make recognition feel routine. Varying your language not only shows that you are paying close attention but also highlights the uniqueness of the achievement. Choosing different phrases helps ensure that each message of praise feels genuine, meaningful, and truly reflective of the effort and success being celebrated.
15 alternatives that express celebratory recognition
Here are 15 thoughtful ways to recognize major wins while keeping your praise fresh and personal:
- Well deserved!
- Standing ovation!
- Round of applause.
- Huge congrats on the big win!
- Phenomenal achievement.
- You earned every bit of that success.
- A milestone worth celebrating.
- Let's hear it for you!
- Truly an inspiring accomplishment.
- You made it happen.
- Remarkable performance.
- Victory well claimed!
- Top-tier delivery.
- Massive congrats to you and the team.
- What an amazing success story!
Each of these expressions moves beyond simple congratulations to reflect a deeper level of recognition, helping employees feel genuinely proud of their dedication and the value they bring to the team. Choosing more personalized language shows that you are acknowledging not just the outcome but also the effort and commitment behind it. This intentional approach strengthens the emotional impact of your recognition and fosters a stronger connection between employees and the company’s culture.
Adding a visual element can make celebratory messages even more memorable and engaging. Incorporating a kudos GIF into Slack shout-outs or internal posts brings an extra layer of energy and personalization to moments of recognition. Using visuals alongside thoughtful words captures attention, amplifies positive emotions, and makes achievements feel even more meaningful across the team.
Matching words to the occasion
Choosing the right phrase depends on the nature of the celebration and the context of the achievement. Tailoring your recognition to the specific moment helps ensure the message feels both genuine and impactful:
- Promotions or awards: Use expressions like well-earned or standing ovation to emphasize professional milestones and career growth.
- Project completions or major launches: Highlight teamwork and execution with phrases such as phenomenal achievement or top-tier delivery.
- Personal wins: Celebrate individual accomplishments with sentiments like huge congrats, or you made it happen, which recognize perseverance and success.
Varying your language does more than avoid repetition—it strengthens the emotional connection behind each message. Thoughtfully crafted recognition makes employees feel seen for their unique contributions rather than receiving generic praise. It fosters a culture where achievements are acknowledged with sincerity and where employees are motivated to continue growing and succeeding.
Recognition efforts can also be elevated by introducing structured systems that track and reward progress. Integrating kudos points into your program helps gamify appreciation, providing teams with an extra layer of motivation while reinforcing the values that drive long-term success.
Another word for give kudos in everyday communication
Recognition does not always need to be formal to be meaningful. Some of the most impactful moments of appreciation happen during the natural flow of everyday work. Whether you are chatting on Slack, following up in an email, or offering a quick comment during a team meeting, having another word for kudos at your fingertips allows you to deliver appreciation that feels genuine and connected to the moment.
To keep recognition fresh and authentic, consider these simple practices:
- Be specific: Focus on the action or contribution rather than using broad praise.
- Match the tone: Choose the language that fits the setting—casual for informal chats, more polished for larger team discussions.
- Stay consistent: Recognize small wins as often as major milestones to build a culture of everyday appreciation.
The goal is to make recognition a natural part of your workplace rhythm without it feeling repetitive or routine. Thoughtful language choices help ensure that each acknowledgment carries real meaning and continues to reinforce the positive behaviors that drive your team's success.
15 everyday phrases that replace "give kudos"
If you're looking to switch it up, try using these casual, heartfelt alternatives in your regular conversations:
- Give a shout-out
- Show appreciation
- Recognize their effort
- Offer some well-earned praise
- Call out a win
- Drop a quick note of thanks
- Celebrate a small victory
- Show some love
- Point out great work
- Acknowledge their contribution
- Say thanks in real-time
- Send positive vibes their way
- Highlight their dedication
- Mention a standout moment
- Give them a little spotlight
These phrases feel natural and adaptable across different communication platforms, from Slack to team emails. More importantly, they help avoid the risk of recognition feeling repetitive or generic, which can sometimes occur when the same expressions are overused.
Adding a visual element can make recognition even more engaging. Incorporating kudos memes into your messages brings energy, humor, and personality to peer-to-peer appreciation, making every day wins feel even more memorable and fun.
Formal vs. casual phrasing: when to use what
- Casual language like "shout-out" or "show some love" works best in informal, fast-moving environments—especially for celebrating micro-wins.
- Formal language such as "recognize their effort" or "highlight their dedication" fits well in performance reviews, HR tools, or emails to leadership.
Understanding the context and relationship is key. Recognition should reflect what was accomplished and how well you know the person you're praising. Tailoring your words helps you connect on a more meaningful level—and that's what makes it stick.
Everyday recognition plays a critical role in shaping a culture of appreciation and accountability. When teams prioritize consistent, meaningful feedback, it becomes easier to celebrate both individual and collective success. Incorporating employee kudos into your regular communication is a simple yet effective way to acknowledge contributions, boost morale, and reinforce the values that define your workplace culture.
Another word for kudos praise in leadership
When it comes to leadership, how you give praise matters just as much as what you're praising. While kudos is a great start, using more precise language strengthens your message—and deepens the impact. If you're wondering what's another word for kudos praise in leadership, the answer lies in intentionality, tone, and context.
Leaders who vary their recognition language build trust and reinforce a culture of appreciation. Even a single remark can be significant, especially when it's delivered in a thoughtful form—like a handwritten note, a well-timed shout-out, or even a public acknowledgment in an all-hands meeting.
Leadership-approved alternatives to kudos
Whether you're preparing for a performance review or giving spontaneous recognition during a team call, these leadership-ready alternatives make praise feel more credible and earned:
- Commendation – Formal, powerful, and perfect for official recognition moments.
- Accolade – Best used to honor big achievements or career milestones.
- Approval – Great for reinforcing alignment with company values or project goals.
- Acclaim – Adds weight to high-profile contributions or public wins.
- Honor – A versatile term that can reflect deep admiration and respect.
- Acknowledgment – Underrated but highly effective for subtle, sincere feedback.
- Esteem – Ideal for reinforcing a teammate's reputation or consistent excellence.
Expanding the language you use to recognize others not only brings variety to your communication but also strengthens your message as a leader. Thoughtful word choice signals that you value dedication, performance, and meaningful contributions, which can inspire others to lead with similar intentions. When applied consistently, kudos recognition becomes a cultural practice that reinforces shared values, highlights positive behaviors, and encourages long-term engagement across teams.
How to use these alternatives in reviews, 1:1s, and all-hands
The key to great leadership communication is choosing the right language for the right moment:
- In a 1:1 setting, lean into more personal terms like "appreciation" or "esteem" to foster authentic connection.
- In a performance review, use structured language like "commendation" or "approval" to communicate clearly and objectively.
- In an all-hands meeting, use terms like "accolade" or "acclaim" to publicly celebrate standout wins.
Understanding the context and relationship allows leaders to deliver praise that sticks. Recognition isn't one-size-fits-all—and using a wide variety of language helps you meet people where they are.
Curious about how to make praise more visual or engaging during public shout-outs? Take a look at how a kudos board can amplify recognition across your organization.
How to find the right synonym for kudos
Finding another word for kudos doesn't have to be complicated—but it should be thoughtful. Whether you're writing a Slack message, delivering feedback in a one-on-one, or drafting a performance review, the right synonym can help your recognition feel authentic, personal, and impactful. With so many variations, it's all about aligning your words with the situation.
A well-chosen expression reinforces your message and becomes a clear sign of how much you value someone's contribution.
Let's break it down.
Consider the relationship (peer, manager, direct report)
Who you're recognizing plays a major role in how you should phrase it:
- Peers may appreciate more casual, energizing recognition. Try phrases like "props," "you nailed it," or "shout-out" in everyday Slack threads.
- Direct reports benefit from structured praise that supports their growth. Use language like "commendation," "accolade," or "acknowledgment" to signal meaningful approval.
- Managers or cross-functional colleagues may resonate more with formal recognition, such as "well-deserved praise" or "respect for your leadership."
Choosing the right noun creates clarity and elevates your message. It also demonstrates emotional intelligence—something that never goes unnoticed.
If you need help aligning tone and relationships, Matter's kudos platform offers built-in templates that surface appropriate language based on the moment and audience.
Match the tone to the achievement (fun vs. formal)
Recognition should scale with the size and impact of the achievement:
- For small wins or quick contributions, casual words like "cheers," "you crushed it," or "thank you for the support" hit the right note.
- For larger moments—like promotions, major launches, or long-term effort—lean into more formal praise such as "commendation," "honor," or "acclaim."
The tone of your recognition should align with the nature of the contribution, the emotional weight of the moment, and the values your team upholds. Whether you're celebrating a small win or a major achievement, how you express appreciation can influence how it's received. Reviewing real-world giving kudos examples can provide useful context for how tone, language, and delivery style shape the impact of recognition across different scenarios.
Don't forget sincerity matters more than the exact words
The most meaningful recognition doesn’t rely on perfect phrasing—it depends on authenticity. While strong word choice can elevate your message, it’s the intention behind the words that truly resonates. Recognition is most effective when it reflects genuine appreciation and attention to the individual’s effort.
Think of each moment of recognition as an opportunity to strengthen connections and reinforce the values your team shares. When messages are thoughtful and grounded in sincerity, they inspire trust, motivation, and lasting engagement.
To make your recognition meaningful and memorable:
- Be specific: General praise often gets overlooked. Instead of saying, “Great job,” describe the exact impact: “Your attention to detail helped us catch issues early and stay ahead of schedule.”
- Be intentional: Tailor your language to the context and the recipient’s personality. A message that reflects your company culture and the individual’s style will always feel more genuine.
- Be consistent: Don’t wait for big wins. Offering regular appreciation builds a workplace where people feel valued every day, not just during milestones.
Recognition done well doesn’t need to be elaborate—it just needs to be real. By keeping messages specific, consistent, and aligned with your team’s values, you create a culture where appreciation becomes part of how work gets done.
How Matter helps you say more than just kudos
When kudos becomes your default for every recognition moment, it can lose its spark. The message may still be positive, but the emotional impact begins to fade. That's why Matter exists—to help you elevate praise with thoughtful language that reflects the honor received, the effort given, and the intention behind every moment of recognition.
Matter empowers teams to move beyond repetition with flexible tools that support informal encouragement and formal approval of noun messaging. Whether it's a daily shout-out or a milestone celebration, Matter makes it easy to find another word for kudos that lands with authenticity.
Built-in templates with multiple ways to say "give kudos"
Matter's built-in kudos templates offer a wide range of options, helping teams recognize contributions with the right tone, level of formality, and alignment with company values. From light, conversational notes to more formal acknowledgments, these templates make it easier to express meaningful recognition without sounding repetitive. Having structured language ready to use allows for consistency while still leaving room for personalization.
This approach supports a broader culture of appreciation kudos—recognition that is specific, thoughtful, and closely tied to the behaviors and contributions that matter most. A varied vocabulary that includes words like admiration, applause, or commendation helps keep praise fresh and relevant across different contexts and communication channels.
Suggested phrases for "another word for kudos to you" in messages
A well-chosen phrase can have a lasting impact when it reflects the right tone and intent. Matter offers thoughtfully curated language suggestions tailored to the occasion, relationship, and type of contribution, helping every message feel personal and sincere. Whether you're recognizing consistent performance or highlighting a standout achievement, these prompts go beyond generic praise to capture the significance of the moment and the value it represents.
Try lines like:
- "You set the bar with this one—massive respect."
- "Your leadership and follow-through made all the difference."
- "This was a real win, and your role can't be overstated."
Inspiration for meaningful recognition can come from many places, including the words of others. Thoughtfully chosen kudos quotes can add warmth, clarity, or even a touch of encouragement to your message—especially when you're aiming to make appreciation feel truly personal. Incorporating these kinds of expressions into your recognition efforts helps create moments that resonate, reinforce your values, and leave a lasting impression.
Easily send public or private praise that feels personal and meaningful
Whether you're sending praise in a private chat or posting it in a public Slack channel, Matter lets you choose the form and tone of your message. The ability to recognize people both publicly and privately creates a culture where everyone feels seen—and where recognition aligns with personality and preference.
- Public posts build visibility and community-wide acknowledgment
- Private messages foster connection and personal growth
- Scheduled prompts help everyone stay consistent with their recognition habits
At its core, Matter supports a cultural shift—from one-off compliments to regular, thoughtful affirmation. The platform encourages a recognition rhythm rooted in variety, sincerity, and, yes, a whole dictionary's worth of ways to say "you matter."
FAQ’s about another word for kudos
Q: Why should I use another word for kudos instead of just sticking with one term?
A: While kudos is a strong and widely recognized form of praise, using a variety of words helps keep recognition fresh and more meaningful. It shows that you're putting thought into your message, tailoring it to the context and the person, which makes the appreciation feel more personal and authentic.
Q: What are some professional alternatives to kudos?
A: Professional synonyms for kudos include terms like commendation, appreciation, recognition, and respect. These words are well-suited for formal settings and help communicate value with clarity and sincerity—especially in performance reviews, company-wide communications, or executive-level acknowledgments.
Q: How do I choose the right synonym for a specific situation?
A: Consider the tone of your workplace, the nature of the achievement, and your relationship with the recipient. For example, a casual "well done" might work in a Slack message between peers, while commendation or applause may be more fitting in a public team meeting or official announcement.
Q: Can using synonyms for kudos improve engagement?
A: Yes—when recognition feels thoughtful and tailored, it has a stronger emotional impact. Varying your language reinforces that each contribution is seen as unique, which helps employees feel truly valued and keeps engagement high over time.
Final thoughts on using alternatives to kudos
Gratitude is foundational to every high-performing team—but how it's expressed can determine whether recognition feels meaningful or is quickly forgotten. While kudos are a valuable starting point, using them exclusively can make your praise feel repetitive over time. Expanding your vocabulary with the right kudos synonyms adds variety and intention to every message.
There's a wide range of impactful terms—such as acclaim, commendation, and respect—that allow you to tailor recognition based on tone, relationship, and the significance of the contribution. Whether you're acknowledging a teammate's steady support or celebrating a major achievement, the words you choose help ensure your appreciation feels genuine, specific, and memorable.
Tailor your recognition with intention
Recognition becomes more impactful when it's aligned with the situation. Consider these points:
- Use informal praise like props or cheers for everyday interactions.
- Use a structured approval noun like "commendation" or "recognition" in formal settings like performance reviews or leadership updates.
- Mix in lesser-used expressions of gratitude to keep your recognition varied and fresh.
For example, a quick "shout-out" may work for a peer, but someone who has gone above and beyond might benefit more from a personalized message that includes deeper acknowledgment and respect.
Variety builds credibility
What you say and how you say it speaks volumes. While kudos is commonly used across industries, relying on it too often can dilute its meaning. Leveraging a broader vocabulary of praise ensures that every team member feels genuinely valued—not just included in a routine.
At the end of the day, recognition isn't about eloquence—it's about effort. And taking a moment to choose the right words shows that you care. It tells your teammates that what they do matters—and how they show up is seen.
Ready to build a culture where recognition feels natural, meaningful, and lasting? Schedule a demo with a Matter expert and discover how effortless it can be to celebrate every contribution.
