E-cards
Recognition at the University of Alberta is the acknowledgement of an individual's or team's behaviour, effort, and accomplishments that support the institution’s goals and values.
Sending an e-card is a high-impact, low-cost activity that fosters an environment where faculty and staff feel valued and encouraged to perform at their best. A simple card or an e-card serves as a meaningful, straightforward way to celebrate milestones, mark life events, or thank someone for their contributions.
How to send an e-card
Browse by category to find the perfect card
Click the Select this card button at the bottom of the card
Fill in the recipient's email, name and a personalized message
Click the Send Message button, and make your colleague’s day!
Access to the app is restricted to those with a valid U of A email address.
Why send an e-card?
Fosters Positive Culture
It is one of the easiest ways to say, "This is what we value". A simple message goes a very long way in letting colleagues know they are valued—whether you are recognizing a special day, acknowledging a job well done, or just letting someone know you are thinking of them.
Boosts Engagement
Strengthens faculty and staff engagement, performance, and retention.
Reinforces Behaviour
It is a tool to highlight specific actions you want to see repeated.
Builds Trust
Small, regular recognition builds more trust than occasional grand gestures.
Consider sending a card during key professional moments such as:
- Project Milestones: Completion of a difficult phase or successful launch.
- Exceeding Expectations: When someone goes above and beyond their daily role.
- Living University Values: When an action explicitly aligns with university core values and priorities.
- Supportive Behaviour: Helping a colleague or providing mentorship.
At the U of A, we’re a community, and together we can create a space where hard work is not only valued but acknowledged and appreciated, moving Forward Together. So take time to celebrate all of the wonderful things your colleagues do each day that make the workplace a little bit brighter.
To purchase printed hard-copy recognition cards, please visit marketing on demand or email talent.management@ualberta.ca.
Ways to Recognize
Everyday Recognition
Everyday recognition is just as impactful as formal rewards, yet quicker. All faculty, staff, and leaders should integrate it daily.
Award Nominations
Nominate the deserving teammates you see are making a difference in your work team and in our communities!
Recognition Materials
If a tangible reward would help make your appreciation more impactful, a variety of official recognition items are available for order.
When to Send an e-card
Recognize people regularly and as close to the moment as possible. To cover all aspects of the workplace experience and personal milestones, you can choose from a wide range of official e-card topics:
Tips to Make An Impact
- Be Specific - Name the behaviour or action and its impact. Avoid generic phrases like “Great job”
- Be Timely - Send the card as soon as the contribution is observed
- Be Human - Use your own voice; authenticity matters more than a polished speech.
- Be Consistent - Be mindful of who you recognize; ensure you aren’t overlooking less visible roles.
Sample Phrasing
- To a Peer: "I noticed how you handled that difficult student inquiry today. Your patience really helped de-escalate the situation and aligns perfectly with our commitment to service."
- To a Direct Report: "Thank you for the detailed data analysis on the XYZ report. Because your work was so precise, we were able to make an informed decision much faster than expected."
Who to Include (Visibility Matters)
- Solely to the Individual: Best for private personalities or personal "thank yous".
- Include Their Supervisor: This highlights their achievements for performance reviews and career growth.
- Include Colleagues: Promotes team appreciation and builds camaraderie for shared efforts.
Pro Tip: If you can clearly answer "What did they do and why did it matter?", your Kudos card will feel genuine and have a lasting impact.
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