15 Best Employee Recognition Software to Boost Workplace Engagement in 2025

Being paid is what employees always desire. Sometimes, they want a quick “thank you” or appreciation or an annual award that might feel nice, but it doesn’t match the pace of modern workplaces. People want recognition that is timely, personal, and visible to others.

That’s where Employee Recognition Software comes in. These tools make it easy for teams to share appreciation, celebrate milestones, and reward contributions in real time. They not only save HR hours of manual work but also help create a culture where recognition becomes part of everyday interactions. When appreciation is consistent and meaningful, employees feel motivated, connected, and more engaged with their work.

Why Employee Recognition Software Matters

In the past, recognition often meant “Employee of the Month” plaques or end-of-year bonuses. While those still have value, they don’t match the pace and expectations of modern work environments. Employees today want appreciation that’s:

• Timely – given soon after an achievement
• Personalized – tailored to their preferences and contributions
• Visible – shared across the team to inspire others

Especially in remote and hybrid setups, recognition software bridges the gap by:

• Automating birthdays, work anniversaries, and milestone celebrations
• Allowing peers, not just managers, to give recognition
• Offering digital and physical rewards employees can actually use
• Providing analytics to track engagement and participation

How to Choose the Right Employee Recognition Software

When selecting the best platform for your team, keep these points in mind:

1. Team Size & Structure – Is your team small and local, or large and global?
2. Features You Need – Peer-to-peer recognition, rewards, milestone automation, wellness challenges, etc.
3. Integrations – Does it work with Slack, Microsoft Teams, Outlook, or your HR/payroll system?
4. Budget & ROI – Understand per-user or flat-rate pricing. Some start at low prices per user/month.
5. Analytics – Look for dashboards that track participation, reward redemptions, and engagement trends.
6. Ease of Use – It should be simple enough for employees and managers to adopt without long training sessions.
7. Global Capabilities – Multi-currency and multilingual support if you have international teams.

List of Top Employee Recognition Software

1. Bonusly

Website: https://bonusly.com 

Bonusly is a people-focused employee recognition platform designed to help organizations build a culture of appreciation. It enables employees to send small, frequent, and meaningful recognition to colleagues, reinforcing positive behaviors and company values. The platform uses a point-based reward system, where points can be redeemed for gift cards, donations, or custom rewards.

Bonusly’s social feed encourages transparency and engagement, allowing the whole team to see recognition in real-time. With robust analytics, HR leaders can measure participation and the impact of recognition on retention. The platform integrates seamlessly with tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and HRIS systems for smooth adoption. Bonusly is widely used by both small businesses and enterprise organizations worldwide.

Features:

• Peer-to-peer and manager recognition
• Points-based rewards system
• Real-time social recognition feed
• Customizable reward catalos
• Engagement analytics and reporting
• Integration with Slack, Teams, and HR tools

Pricing:

• Core Plan: $3 per user/month
• Pro Plan: $5 per user/month
  

2. Nectar

Website: https://nectarhr.com

Nectar is an adaptable platform for employee rewards and recognition that assists businesses in fostering a culture of gratitude at work. It enables both peer-to-peer and manager recognition, allowing employees to send meaningful shoutouts tied to company values. Nectar uses a point-based reward system, where points can be redeemed for gift cards, company merchandise, or custom rewards. The platform also supports automated celebrations for birthdays, work anniversaries, and other milestones, ensuring no achievement goes unnoticed.

With built-in challenges and campaigns, managers can encourage wellness, performance, and team-building activities. Nectar integrates seamlessly with Slack, Microsoft Teams, and various HRIS platforms, making it easy to adopt in any organization. Its reporting tools provide insights into participation and recognition trends, helping HR leaders boost engagement.

Features:

• Peer-to-peer and manager recognition with point system
• Customizable rewards catalog with gift cards and company swag
• Automated celebrations for milestones and special occasions
• Wellness challenges and engagement campaigns
• Real-time analytics and reporting
• Integration with Slack, Teams, and HR tools

Pricing:

• Plus Plan: $5 per user/month (billed annually)
• Premium Plan: $6 per user/month (billed annually)
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing available on request

3. Constant Contact

Website: www.constantcontact.com

Constant Contact is a popular email marketing platform that has been widely adopted by nonprofits for its ease of use and robust features. It offers ready-to-use email templates, event management tools, and list segmentation options, making it easier for nonprofits to run targeted campaigns. The platform also integrates with donation and fundraising tools, allowing organizations to track contributions alongside campaign performance. With its automation features, nonprofits can create welcome series, donor appreciation emails, and periodic newsletters without manual effort.

Features:

• Drag-and-drop email editor with customizable templates
• Real-time tracking and analytics
• Event registration and management tools
• List segmentation for personalized campaigns
• Integration with CRM and fundraising software

Pricing:

• Core Plan: Starts at $12/month
• Plus Plan: Starts at $35/month

4. Campaign Monitor

Website: www.campaignmonitor.com

Campaign Monitor is known for its beautifully designed email templates and user-friendly interface, making it an excellent choice for nonprofits that prioritize visual appeal in their campaigns. It provides advanced segmentation, automated journeys, and personalized content delivery to improve donor engagement. Nonprofits can also access detailed reporting features to measure open rates, click-through rates, and conversions. Campaign Monitor integrates seamlessly with donation platforms, CRMs, and social media tools, enabling a unified approach to outreach.

Features:

• Professionally designed, responsive email templates
• Advanced list segmentation and personalization
• Automated donor journey creation
• Detailed performance analytics and reporting
• Integration with CRM and fundraising tools

Pricing:

• Basic Plan: Starts at $11/month
• Unlimited Plan: Starts at $19/month

5. MailerLite

Website: www.mailerlite.com

MailerLite offers a balance of simplicity and advanced functionality, making it a great budget-friendly option for nonprofits. Its drag-and-drop editor, automation tools, and integrated surveys help organizations create interactive and personalized campaigns. MailerLite also supports landing pages and pop-ups, useful for growing donor lists. The platform provides A/B testing for campaigns, enabling nonprofits to test different subject lines, designs, and calls to action for optimal results.

Features:

• Drag-and-drop email builder with modern templates
• Automation workflows for donor engagement
• Built-in surveys and forms
• Landing pages and pop-up creation
• Campaign A/B testing and analytics

Pricing:

• Free Plan: Up to 1,000 subscribers
• Growing Business Plan: Starts at $10/month

6. Workhuman

Website: www.workhuman.com

Workhuman is a globally recognized employee recognition platform trusted by enterprises to foster a culture of appreciation and connection. It combines social recognition, performance management, and employee engagement tools into one ecosystem, enabling organizations to celebrate achievements in real time.

The platform supports peer-to-peer recognition, monetary awards, and milestone celebrations, all with deep analytics to measure impact. Designed for large, diverse workforces, Workhuman helps bridge cultural and geographical gaps. Its AI-driven insights guide HR leaders in building more inclusive and retention-focused recognition strategies.

Features:

• Social and peer recognition programs with multimedia messages
• Service milestones and life event celebrations
• Monetary and non-monetary award options
• AI-driven analytics on engagement and retention trends
• Integration with HRIS and collaboration tools

Pricing:

• Custom quotes based on organization size and module

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7. Kudos

Website: www.kudos.com

Kudos is a flexible platform for incentives and recognition that aims to improve workplace culture by fostering genuine gratitude. It allows employees to send personalized messages, attach points, and choose rewards from an extensive global catalog. With its strong emphasis on values-based recognition, Kudos helps companies align appreciation with their core mission and goals.

The platform provides detailed reporting to measure engagement levels and highlight top contributors. Its mobile-friendly design ensures employees can participate from anywhere, making it ideal for hybrid teams. Kudos also supports multi-language communication, ensuring inclusivity across global teams.

Features:

• Values-based peer-to-peer recognition
• Customizable points and rewards system
• Global rewards catalog with physical and digital options
• Engagement analytics and custom reporting
• Mobile app for on-the-go recognition

Pricing:

• Available on request; tailored per company needs

8. Guusto

Website: www.guusto.com

Guusto offers a simple, impactful way for organizations to recognize employees through digital gift cards and custom rewards. It’s designed with flexibility in mind, allowing employees to choose rewards that matter most to them from a vast partner network. The platform’s “pay-it-forward” feature encourages a culture of continuous appreciation, where recognition flows naturally across teams. Guusto integrates seamlessly with HR systems, enabling real-time tracking of recognition activities. It also donates a day of clean water for every gift sent, adding a CSR dimension to employee engagement.

Features:

• Digital and physical gift card options
• “Pay-it-forward” recognition chain feature
• Over 60,000 global reward choices
• Corporate social responsibility integration
• Real-time reporting and budget controls

Pricing:

• Starts at $3 per user/month; volume discounts available

9. Terryberry

Website: www.terryberry.com

Terryberry delivers end-to-end recognition solutions covering peer-to-peer recognition, service awards, wellness challenges, and incentive programs. The platform’s interactive recognition wall lets employees publicly appreciate colleagues, boosting morale and visibility. It also offers a comprehensive reward catalog, including branded merchandise and experiences. Terryberry’s analytics help organizations identify recognition trends and measure program ROI. With over a century of experience, the company blends traditional recognition values with modern digital tools to support employee engagement in every industry.

Features:

• Recognition wall for public appreciation
• Service awards and milestone programs
• Incentives for wellness and performance goals
• Global rewards catalog with customization options
• Program analytics and ROI reporting

Pricing:

• Custom quotes based on program scope

10. Motivosity

Website: www.motivosity.com

Motivosity is a people-first recognition and engagement platform built to improve workplace happiness and retention. Its “ThanksMatters” card system allows employees to earn and spend rewards flexibly. The platform combines recognition, peer bonding, and manager coaching tools to strengthen company culture. Motivosity also offers mood tracking, enabling HR leaders to spot engagement trends early. The social feed keeps recognition visible, while leaderboards add a gamified touch to appreciation. Its ease of use and transparent pricing make it popular among mid-sized businesses.

Features:

• Peer-to-peer recognition with reward cards
• Public recognition feed with likes and comments
• Manager development and feedback tools
• Mood tracking and engagement insights
• Integrations with HR and communication tools

Pricing:

• From $2 per user/month for recognition features

11. Bucketlist Rewards

Website: www.bucketlistrewards.com

Bucketlist Rewards helps organizations inspire and engage employees through unique, meaningful rewards and recognition experiences. Employees can choose from adventures, gift cards, or charitable donations, making recognition truly personal. The platform encourages frequent peer-to-peer appreciation with an easy-to-use interface and gamified leaderboards. By integrating with well-known communication platforms like Microsoft Teams and Slack, it guarantees that recognition gets ingrained in routine processes.Detailed analytics help track participation, reward trends, and engagement impact.

Features:

• Adventure-based and traditional reward options
• Peer recognition and nomination programs
• Slack and Teams integration for quick recognition
• Custom branding for a tailored experience
• Engagement and participation analytics

Pricing:

• Custom packages available based on features

12. Blueboard

Website: https://blueboard-archive.webflow.io/

Blueboard specializes in experiential rewards, offering employees memorable experiences instead of traditional gifts. From cooking classes to travel getaways, it enables companies to provide recognition that truly resonates. The platform’s curated catalog ensures quality and uniqueness, while its concierge service handles booking logistics. Blueboard’s focus on experiences boosts long-term engagement by creating lasting memories. It also supports global teams, delivering localized reward options in over 70 countries.

Features:

• Experiential rewards catalog with curated options
• Concierge service for booking and coordination
• Peer and manager recognition programs
• Global delivery of localized experiences
• Analytics on reward redemption and engagement

Pricing:

• Based on reward volume and experience selection

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13. O.C. Tanner

Website: www.octanner.com

O.C. Tanner is a pioneer in employee recognition, offering comprehensive solutions for celebrating achievements, milestones, and everyday contributions. Its Culture Cloud platform blends recognition, service awards, and performance insights into one cohesive system. The platform allows for personalized messages, points-based rewards, and global reward fulfillment. O.C. Tanner’s research-backed approach ensures recognition programs align with proven engagement strategies. Large organizations particularly value its scalability and customization.

Features:

• Culture Cloud platform for recognition and awards
• Points-based rewards with global fulfillment
• Service milestone celebrations and achievements
• Research-driven recognition strategies
• In-depth analytics and program optimization

Pricing:

• Custom quotes for enterprise programs

14. Awardco

Website: www.award.co 

Awardco modernizes employee recognition by partnering directly with Amazon to offer millions of reward options without markups. This makes it easy for employees to find rewards they genuinely want. The platform supports peer-to-peer, manager-led, and automated recognition for milestones and achievements. Awardco also integrates with HR systems, simplifying administration. Its budget-friendly structure and global availability make it ideal for companies seeking both variety and value.

Features:

• Amazon-powered global reward options
• Peer, manager, and automated recognition programs
• Milestone and performance-based awards
• HRIS integration for seamless management
• Analytics on participation and budget usage

Pricing:

• Starts at $3 per user/month

15. Xoxoday Empuls

Website: www.xoxoday.com/empuls

Xoxoday Empuls offers an all-in-one platform for recognition, rewards, surveys, and employee engagement insights. It’s designed to build a connected and motivated workforce, whether remote or on-site. Empuls enables instant peer-to-peer appreciation, manager-driven awards, and organization-wide celebrations. The reward catalog spans gift cards, experiences, and merchandise, with global redemption support. Its analytics dashboard helps track engagement scores and identify culture trends. With native integration into Slack, Teams, and HR systems, recognition becomes seamless.

Features:

• Instant recognition and award programs
• Global rewards catalog with diverse options
• Surveys and feedback tools to measure engagement
• Slack, Teams, and HRIS integration
• Engagement score tracking and analytics

Pricing:

•  From $2.50 per user/month

Comparison Table of Best Employee Recognition Software

Benefits of Using Employee Recognition Software

1. Boosts Morale – Employees feel valued, which increases motivation.
2. Reduces Turnover – Regular appreciation makes employees more likely to stay.
3. Increases Productivity – Engaged employees contribute more effectively.
4. Strengthens Company Values – Recognition tied to values reinforces culture.
5. Provides Insights – Analytics reveal recognition patterns and gaps.
6. Saves Time – Automation reduces HR’s manual workload.
   

Conclusion

The development of a recognition culture does not need to be complex. The proper software will allow you to reward achievements, recognize milestones and keep the gratitude flowing among teams. Regardless of whether you run a small startup or massive enterprise, selecting a solution that aligns with your needs and utilising it on a regular basis will help make employees feel prioritized, and that is what can really enhance engagement and retention.

FAQs

1. What is employee recognition software?

It’s a digital tool that helps organizations acknowledge employee achievements, milestones, and contributions through automated and peer-driven features.

2. Can small businesses use these tools?

Yes, many platforms have affordable or even free plans for small teams.

3. What rewards can be offered?

Options include gift cards, experiences, company swag, charity donations, or extra time off.

4. Do these platforms integrate with Slack or Teams?

Most modern recognition tools integrate with collaboration platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Outlook.

5. How does it improve company culture?

By making appreciation frequent, visible, and tied to company values, it encourages positive behavior and strengthens team bonds.