Don’t let the name fool you – you can use custom engraved donor plaques for much more than just honoring benefactors. Because, let’s face it, not every business is privy to hospital wings, libraries, and other big-time donations.

At my business, I like to order a beautiful wooden plaque to honor each employee of the month. I have it engraved with the worker’s name, his or her time at the company, and the current month and year. The finished product is presented at a company-wide ceremony where I honor the special worker and explain his or her virtues. We even order a cake!

Ever since I started this tradition, I’ve noticed a real increase in worker motivation. And whenever I’m interviewing new employees, I always show them our wall of plaques to get them excited about working here.

In a way, though, I suppose calling them “donor plaques” is appropriate. Even though I pay my employees, they always exceed my expectations. It’s almost like they’re donating, except instead of money I’m lucky enough to receive their time, energy, passion, and innovation.