I am sitting at a formal dining table among my peers. We are in a banquet hall and there are hundreds of people talking to each other, while at the same time immersing themselves in their food. The lighting is dim, but in the middle of the room is a stage with a glowing spotlight. There is a speaker in the center who mixes jokes with sincerity and the attributes of the speeches of the many attendees. I am present at my company’s award ceremony that honors the few who have exceeded the goals set for them.
At the end of each presentation, when they are called on stage to congratulate them, they are presented with a recognition plaque in memory of this important event in their lives. This award plaque is a more tangible and permanent means of giving credit and value to the person who has performed beyond expectations. It is an effective way to recognize your contributions and value. Employee awards have become the standard way of doing business.
The word plaque comes from the 19th century and means ornamental plaque or tombstone. An award plaque is always attractive and made to be displayed on the recipient’s wall. It represents prestige and shows high appreciation for that individual or group.
An award plaque can be to reward employees, teammates, organizations, volunteers, or family members. It is for anyone that a mere “Thank you” is not enough. Most award plaques are made up of meaningful personalized messages that can ultimately bring tears of joy to the eyes of the recipient.
Some award plaques may have inspirational or famous quotes. These would be related to success, leadership, creativity and knowledge. One of my friends is a sales manager for a large company. He has a crystal award plaque proudly hanging on the wall in his study. Above it is a quote from Thomas Edison. He proudly says, “Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration.”
They come in many styles, shapes, sizes, materials, and finishes. These high quality plates are perpetual, photographic, personalized, engraved and for all occasions. Some of the materials with which they are made are wood, acrylic, glass, lucite, stainless steel, bronze, pewter, marble, slate and brushed aluminum. Types of engraving services include laser engraving, mechanical engraving, sand carving, photo engraving, screen printing, and die casting.
Engraved plates are a work of art. Recipients can tell how much thought was taken from the words that are inscribed. Hand engraved plates are more expensive but are very authentic and rustic. Machine engraving has largely replaced hand-worked plates. They are less expensive and produce images accurately and effortlessly. Laser engraving has really changed the face of engraved plates. Laser engraving is a precision art that allows the engraver to engrave highly detailed text, images and images directly onto the plate.
Perpetual plates feature a larger header plate with additional smaller plates. They also feature a company logo and are the choice of donors or recognition awards.
Some plates have paper certificates mounted on the plate using high-quality photo paper. Some varieties for finishes are walnut, mahogany, marbled and black ash. These finishes show a distinguished look to your character. They are all durable and sturdy and can be kept in pristine condition for a lifetime.
The right reward serves as a positive emotional reinforcement. Memories of great achievements will never fade thanks to these cherished awards.