Introduction

If you're struggling with low badge adoption and believe that they don't align with your company, you're not alone. Many teams fall into the trap of using only the default badge set. While it works as a starting point, it usually doesn't inspire consistent recognition. The good news? A few quick tweaks can totally change that.

Here are 3 easy tips to make your badge system smooth, meaningful, and fun:

1. Use Fixed Point Values – No More Guesswork

Set your badges with pre-defined point values. This makes it easier for your team to give recognition quickly—no decision fatigue or awkward guessing.

🔧 Pro tip: Use “Pick" option when creating/editing a badge. That way, your team can simply click and go!

2. Align Badges with Your Company Values

Tie badges to your core values to reinforce the behaviors that define your culture. When recognition is aligned with your mission, it becomes a powerful retention tool.

🧭 Example: If “Customer Obsession” is a core value, create a badge for going above and beyond in client interactions.

3. Add a General Badge

Mix in a general-purpose badge (like “Appreciation”) to make sure that you'll have something to fit every feedback. And, if you are feeling inspired, sprinkle in some fun ones—memes, inside jokes, or team-specific references.

😄 A badge named “Spreadsheet Wizard” or “Karen Whisperer” can turn a smile into a habit of recognition.

Conclusion

Badges don’t just reward performance—they build culture. With just a few tweaks, you’ll go from “meh” to meaningful in no time.