Most people don’t remember the bonus they got three years ago, but they’ll never forget the moment their name was called in front of the team and they were handed a beautifully crafted award. Recognition isn’t just about performance. It’s about people. And when it’s done right, it sticks.
In today’s fast-paced business world, where Slack messages replace hallway conversations and Zoom calls blur the lines between departments, finding meaningful ways to recognize people has never been more important. That’s where corporate awards come in — not as another checkbox during your annual meeting, but as a lasting gesture that says: “We see you. We appreciate you. And this moment matters.”
Whether you’re planning an end-of-year banquet, looking to honor leadership milestones, or simply want to boost morale with something more than a thank-you email, Viking Awards offers a wide range of premier corporate awards that do more than sit on a shelf — they tell a story. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the most impressive options, show you how to match them to real-world recognition moments, and share ideas for categories that go way beyond “Employee of the Month.”
Why Corporate Recognition Should Feel Premier
There’s a difference between handing someone a generic certificate and presenting them with an award that actually means something. One feels routine. The other creates a moment. And in a business world where retention, motivation, and culture are everything, those moments matter more than ever.
A well-chosen award isn’t just about aesthetics — it communicates value. It shows that the organization put time and thought into how they honor their people. And when done consistently, it becomes part of the company’s DNA.
Recognition isn’t just a feel-good tactic, either. Studies show it boosts productivity, increases engagement, and even reduces turnover. But it has to feel authentic. That’s why the physical award still matters. In a remote world, where so many achievements happen behind screens, handing someone a tangible, beautifully made piece they can hold in their hands feels different. It becomes a lasting reminder of their impact.
And let’s not forget what it says to everyone else. When your team sees that excellence is truly celebrated — not just acknowledged — it sets the bar. It inspires. It shows people what’s possible, and it makes them want to show up and give their best.
In the next section, we’ll break down some of Viking Awards’ most impressive corporate award options, from sleek crystal towers to modern acrylic designs — all customizable to reflect your brand and message.
The Best Premier Corporate Awards from Viking Awards
When it comes to recognizing your team, the right award says it all. Whether you’re honoring years of service, leadership, innovation, or quiet excellence, Viking Awards offers pieces that look and feel as important as the moment itself. Below are some standout options that work across a variety of occasions, teams, and company cultures.
Allure Indigo Award — $225.00–$324.00
If you want to make a bold impression, this is the one. The Allure Indigo Award features deep blue accents that catch the light beautifully and a sleek wave design that feels modern and sophisticated. Perfect for major milestones — like CEO awards, lifetime achievement, or honoring top executives. This isn’t something you hand out casually — it’s a centerpiece.
Crystal Obelisk with Prism Effect — $231.00
A sharp, clean design with a professional weight to it. The prism edges give it depth without feeling flashy. This is a great pick for “Leader of the Year,” “Project of the Year,” or high-performing managers who’ve made a big impact. It’s timeless, elegant, and always well-received.
Crystal Trophy with Blue Globe — $81.00
This piece features a small globe embedded at the top — subtle but striking. It’s ideal for international teams, global recognition, or anyone who’s led cross-functional projects across departments or borders. It’s polished, approachable, and fits in any office setting.
Cube Series Crystal Award — $39.00–$108.00
Modern, minimalist, and surprisingly versatile. The cube design is a creative alternative to traditional shapes, perfect for innovation awards or unique contributions that break the mold. This one says “you think differently, and we value that.”
Diamond Series Clear Crystal Trophy — $114.00–$201.00
This award has presence. The diamond shape sits beautifully on its base and gives off a clean, upscale feel. It works well for departmental MVPs, quarterly performance awards, or anyone going above and beyond in a measurable way.
Diamond Series Crystal Award — $135.00–$174.00
A taller, more angular version with rainbow-reflecting sides. This one stands out on shelves and desks, which makes it ideal for sales excellence, innovation, or someone who led a major initiative. When you want something impressive but not over-the-top, this fits perfectly.
Flame Series Multi-Faceted Crystal — $115.50–$160.50
Bold and dramatic. The flame design symbolizes passion, drive, and vision — making it a perfect fit for awards that recognize culture-building, creativity, or entrepreneurial spirit. Also great for startups or marketing teams.
Egg-Shaped Colored Art Glass Award — $69.00
If you’re looking for something more artistic, this is it. The hand-blown glass design with colorful swirls makes every piece unique. It’s a great option for creative roles, community awards, or team members known for originality and energy. It feels different — in the best way.
Tidal Series Clear Glass with Black Background — $54.00–$66.00
The contrast of clear glass and black backing gives this award a sleek, modern vibe. It works well for smaller ceremonies, appreciation awards, or service recognitions. It’s clean, customizable, and looks sharp in any environment.
Blue Flame Acrylic with Clear Pop-Out Center — $42.00–$51.00
Affordable but still eye-catching. The blue flame shape pops on desks and bookshelves and can be customized for anything from monthly standouts to department awards. Great for larger teams or recurring programs where you want consistency with impact.
Clear Acrylic with Draped Satin Blue & Mirror Border — $63.00–$72.00
This one has subtle details that make it shine — literally. The satin blue paneling and mirrored accents create a polished finish without going overboard. A solid pick for internal awards, sales contests, or event recognition.
Digitally Printed Brushed Silver on Black Upright — $75.00–$93.00
A modern piece with sharp edges and a sleek black base. Great for tech teams, innovation awards, or fast-growth departments. The brushed silver print gives it a clean, almost futuristic look that pairs well with bold branding.
Creative Corporate Award Categories That Go Beyond “Employee of the Month”
Let’s be honest — most companies do some form of “Employee of the Month.” And while that’s a nice gesture, it often ends up feeling routine. The real power of recognition comes when you tailor it to what your people are actually doing — and how they’re making a difference.
Here are some fresh, meaningful award ideas that give credit where it’s due:
The “Above & Beyond” Award
For the person who never clocks out mentally, even when the day ends. They take on extra projects, help teammates, and make things better just because they care.
Great match: Flame Series Crystal or Blue Flame Acrylic
The Quiet Leader
Not every leader is loud. Some lead by example, stay calm under pressure, and gain the respect of others through consistency. This award honors the behind-the-scenes MVP.
Great match: Cube Series Crystal or Tidal Series Glass
The Culture Carrier
They keep the vibe alive. Whether it’s planning events, mentoring new hires, or just showing up with a great attitude every day, they make your company a better place to work.
Great match: Egg-Shaped Art Glass or Allure Indigo Award
The Innovator
This goes to the one who challenges the status quo, brings new ideas to the table, and helps push the company forward — whether through process improvement, tech, or mindset.
Great match: Digitally Printed Black Upright or Diamond Series Crystal
The Comeback Story
Everyone hits rough patches — but this award honors someone who bounced back and came out stronger. Maybe it was a rough quarter, a failed pitch, or a personal challenge they overcame.
Great match: Crystal Obelisk or Crystal Trophy with Globe
Rising Star Award
For the newer employee who’s already making waves. They hit the ground running and show real potential for leadership, innovation, or impact.
Great match: Diamond Series Clear Crystal or Blue Flame Acrylic
The Glue Award
Every team has one — the person who connects people, solves problems, and makes everything work smoother. They might not be in the spotlight, but everything falls apart without them.
Great match: Flame Series Crystal or Tidal Series Glass
The Closer
They deliver when it matters. Sales, proposals, campaigns — whatever the finish line is, they’re the ones who cross it with confidence.
Great match: Diamond Series Award or Digitally Printed Upright
How to Match Awards with Events and Teams
Every award doesn’t have to be a black-tie moment. In fact, some of the best recognition moments happen when they’re least expected — at a team lunch, on a Zoom call, or during an end-of-week huddle. But knowing when and how to give the right award makes all the difference. Here’s how to think about pairing awards with your format and audience.
Formal Banquets and Company-Wide Events
If you’re organizing a big event — like an annual gala, awards night, or end-of-year gathering — this is where the heavy hitters belong. Think the Allure Indigo Award, Crystal Obelisk, or Diamond Series Crystal Award. These pieces have weight, sparkle under stage lights, and make an impression when handed out in front of a crowd.
Pair them with awards that celebrate leadership, multi-year achievements, or major company milestones.
Team-Specific or Departmental Recognition
For smaller, more personal settings — like a departmental awards ceremony or quarterly team wrap-up — you don’t need something oversized. Choose awards like the Tidal Series, Cube Crystal, or Clear Acrylic with Mirror Border. These still feel premium but are easier to hand out in a casual setting without losing impact.
Use them for team MVPs, standout contributors, or cross-functional collaboration recognition.
Remote and Hybrid Teams
Recognition shouldn’t stop just because someone’s remote. In fact, that’s where it matters most. Ship awards directly to the recipient and present them live on a video call or record a quick team appreciation video.
Lightweight options like the Blue Flame Acrylic, Digitally Printed Upright, or even the Egg-Shaped Glass Award travel well and look great on camera. They also make great background pieces for remote work setups.
Ongoing vs. One-Time Awards
Some awards are meant for a single standout moment — others should become part of your regular rhythm. If you’re starting a monthly or quarterly recognition program, look at consistent but affordable options like the Tidal Series or Diamond Clear Trophy. You can use the same style each time and still keep the message fresh by changing up the engraving.
For one-time lifetime achievement awards or retirement honors, go bold. That’s when the Allure, Obelisk, or Flame Series Crystal come in.
Building a Culture of Recognition That Lasts
Giving out a beautiful award feels great in the moment. But when it becomes part of your culture — not just an annual event — that’s when the real value kicks in.
Make Recognition Consistent
Whether it’s monthly shoutouts, quarterly awards, or annual banquets, people thrive when recognition is part of the company rhythm — not a once-a-year afterthought. Set a calendar, stick to it, and make it part of the culture.
Personalize the Message, Not Just the Trophy
Anyone can engrave a name and a date. What makes it meaningful is the message behind it. Use the engraving space to add a quote, a project name, or a reference to what the person actually did. Or even better — read a short speech when handing it out that captures the why behind the award.
Use Peer Nominations
When coworkers nominate each other, recognition becomes even more powerful. It creates a culture where people notice one another’s contributions. It also makes the awards feel more earned and more democratic.
Display It Proudly — Digitally or In-Office
Create a wall of fame in your office. Or, if you’re remote, make a digital version in your Slack, Teams, or intranet space. Post photos of award winners, short bios, or even videos of the moment they received it. You’ll be surprised how far a little spotlight can go.
Celebrate the Moment
Don’t just hand over the award and move on. Make it a moment. Whether it’s a standing ovation in the break room or a highlight at the company retreat, let people feel the recognition. It matters more than most leaders realize.
Recognition That Reflects Your Brand
A great company culture isn’t built overnight — it’s built moment by moment. And few moments matter more than the ones where people feel seen, valued, and appreciated.
Premier corporate awards aren’t just decorative. They’re a reflection of your company’s values. They show that you take people seriously — and that you’re willing to invest in how you honor their work.
Whether you’re looking for a bold crystal award that makes a statement or a sleek, modern piece that fits your brand’s aesthetic, Viking Awards has something for every occasion, team, and budget.
Explore the full line of Crystal Awards at Viking Awards and start building a recognition tradition your team will never forget.
