Work is often full of small wins as well as big moments. But it’s not often that we actually pause to celebrate them, and we should do it more. Whether your team just landed a huge client, wrapped up a record-breaking year, or hit a company anniversary, those milestones deserve more than a quick “well done” in a group chat.
Research from Harvard Business Review shows that 67% of employees whose managers focused on their strengths were fully engaged in their work, as compared to only 31% of employees whose managers focused on their weaknesses. Celebrating doesn’t have to mean extravagant prizes or cheesy rewards. The goal should be to mark the moment in a way that feels meaningful for your team. Here are 7 easy, thoughtful ideas to help you do just that.
How do you celebrate company milestones with your team?
Celebrate company milestones by recognising your people with bespoke awards, planning a team event, giving a thoughtful gift, or sharing the story of how you got there. Keep it personal, low-pressure, and genuine. It’ll go a long way.
1. Make Custom Awards for the People
A company milestone is a team effort, so why not show appreciation in a way they can hold onto? Custom medals or mini trophies are a fun, personal way to say “thank you” and “you were part of this.” You can customise them with names, roles, and little jokes to make them something your team will actually want to keep on their desk.
2. Throw a Celebration That Actually Feels Like a Break
Skip the stuffy dinner or awkward Zoom toast. Think about what your team actually enjoys. Maybe it’s a picnic, a food truck lunch, a half-day Friday, or just a relaxed get-together in the office with music and cake. Keep it low-key and focus on giving people time to connect and unwind.
3. Write Personal Thank-You Notes (Yes, Really)
It might sound small, but a genuine, handwritten note can mean a lot. A few lines from a manager or founder, mentioning something specific that person contributed, sticks with people. It’s a quiet but effective way to say “we see you.”
4. Share the Story Behind the Milestone
Every big moment has a backstory. Use the milestone to share how far you’ve come, whether through a timeline, a slideshow, or a casual talk from leadership. Invite team members to share their memories or favourite moments too. It helps everyone feel more connected to the journey.
5. Give a Small Gift That Feels Personal
Not every gift has to be expensive. What matters is that it feels thoughtful. Think team-branded merch (the kind people actually want to wear), extra time off, a voucher to a local spot, or a wellness treat. Ask your team for ideas if you’re unsure what they would really want.
6. Take Photos, But Make It Fun
You don’t need a professional photographer. Set up a photo wall, a team selfie challenge, or even a message board where people can write what the milestone means to them. Share the photos (with permission) in your newsletter or Slack, or print a few for the office wall.
7. Talk About What’s Next, Together
While you’re celebrating what’s been achieved, it’s also a great time to ask: what’s next? Bring the team into that conversation. Whether it’s brainstorming goals, new ideas, or just what they’d love to see more of at work, it keeps the momentum going and makes people feel part of the future, too.
Wrapping It Up
Celebrating company milestones doesn’t have to be over the top. What really matters is making your team feel seen, appreciated, and proud of what you’ve built together. Whether it’s a thoughtful thank-you note or a custom medal they can keep forever, those small gestures go a long way.
So next time your business hits a big moment, take a minute to mark it properly. Your team’s earned it.
Need help creating something personal for your next celebration? We make custom medals and awards that teams love, fast, friendly, and made just for you.
