How to Write a Good Shout Out

For a Shout Out to count toward the Shout Outs recognition program, it must meet all of the following criteria:

Recognize one person only
You can thank multiple people in separate Shout Outs, but each individual recognition must be for a single person to qualify.
Highlight one company value
Select the single value that best represents the behavior being recognized. The choice is up to the person giving the Shout Out.
Be specific
Clearly describe what the person did. Avoid vague praise.
Explain the impact
Share why the action mattered. Describe how it helped you, the team, or the organization.

A well-written Shout Out includes four clear components:

1. Mention the Individual

Start by tagging or naming the person you are recognizing so it is clear who the Shout Out is for.

2. Describe the Action

Briefly explain what the person did for the recognition. Focus on a specific behavior or moment.

Ask yourself:

3. Identify the Value

Use a hashtag to call out the single value demonstrated by the behavior.

Example: #Deliver, #Fun, #Transform

This helps connect recognition to our shared values and keeps the program consistent.

4. Explain the Impact (Why It Mattered)

Close by explaining why the action was meaningful. This is what turns a compliment into impactful recognition.

Consider:

A complete Shout Out typically includes 2-4 sentences and follows this structure:

☐ One person recognized
☐ One value included
☐ Specific action described
☐ Clear impact explained

If all four boxes are checked, your Shout Out is ready to submit and eligible for the Shout Outs recognition program.

These guidelines outline best practices for creating effective Shout Outs in the Align tool. We recommend using them as a starting point and adapting them to reflect your organization’s culture and values.