External recognition

Experience recognition in the real world

See how external recognition connects customers, patients, and clients to the people who make a difference.

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Built for connection, powered by design

Customizable program design

Customizable design ensures your external recognition program aligns with your brand identity — consistent, familiar, and reflective of your organization’s culture.

White-label design and confirmation

Recognition types

Mobile-ready

Personalized newsfeed

AI-powered support

Smart AI support helps guide inclusive language, protects personal information, and ensures the right employee gets the credit they deserve.

Inclusion coach

Smart-assisted search

Filters for inappropriate content and personal information

Quality control

Smart recognition management

Simple, streamlined controls make it easy for admins to keep your external recognition program consistent, compliant, and meaningful.

Smart admin approval center

Multi-language support

Edit, deny, or approve recognitions

External recognition FAQs

What is an external recognition program?

An external recognition program is a tool that enables customers, patients, and partners to recognize employees directly. It captures authentic feedback in the moment and empowers the people beyond an organization to celebrate employees for the impact they make both inside and outside the organization.

Who is an external recognition program meant for?

External recognition programs are designed for organizations with customer-facing and frontline teams — from healthcare and manufacturing to finance services, professional services, hourly employees, and technicians. They give patients, customers, guests, and clients an easy way to recognize the employees who make a real impact every day.

Why is an external recognition program important?

An external recognition program is important because, according to Achievers’ External Recognition Report, 70% of frontline workers feel disconnected from their organization’s culture. By giving customers, patients, guests, and clients a voice, these programs help close that gap — reinforcing purpose, strengthening connection, and making appreciation a visible part of everyday work.

When should external recognition programs be used?

External recognition programs can be used anytime a guest, customer, patient, or client experiences exceptional service or support. Whether it’s a kind word after a hospital visit or a thank-you after a successful project, external recognition makes it simple to share that appreciation in the moment — and shows how organizations can leverage external recognition to strengthen culture and connection over time.

How does an external recognition program work?

An external recognition program works through simple, accessible tools that make it easy for people outside your organization to recognize employees instantly. Using QR codes or unique links, recognitions are submitted in real time. Admins can review and approve recognitions, while AI assists with employee matching, inclusivity, and quality control before recognitions appear on your company's R&R platform.

Want a step-by-step guide to getting started? Check out the External Recognition Checklist to learn how to design a program that's visible, inclusive, and high impact from day one.

Where are external recognitions shared on the program?

Approved recognitions are shared on your organization’s R&R platform, where employees can like, comment, and boost them. This visibility connects external appreciation to your internal culture — turning customer and patient gratitude into moments that inspire the entire team.