Introduction to the 2025 Excellence in Action Awards
Brandon Hall Group, a leading independent research and analyst firm in the field of Human Capital Management (HCM), is set to launch its 2025 Excellence in Action Awards program. This initiative builds on the firm’s impressive 30-year legacy within HCM Awards, similar to the prestigious Academy Awards in Hollywood.
Celebrating Exceptional Workplaces
The Excellence in Action Awards are designed to honor organizations that foster remarkable workplace environments where employees feel valued and are encouraged to thrive. Applications for the awards opened recently and will be accepted until mid-October 2025.
Innovation and Employee Engagement
Mike Cooke, the CEO of Brandon Hall Group, emphasizes the importance of actively listening to employees in today’s competitive landscape. Organizations that prioritize employee feedback and implement changes based on that input gain a significant competitive edge. The Excellence in Action Awards aim to showcase these forward-thinking companies and share their innovative strategies with a wider audience.
Focus on Employee Experience
This awards program features multiple categories that cover critical aspects of HCM, including Employee Engagement, Career Development, Diversity and Inclusion, Wellness, and Leadership. Unlike traditional awards that tend to highlight policies and metrics, the Excellence in Action Awards are centered around authentic employee experiences and voices, setting them apart from other recognition programs.
A Unique Perspective on Recognition
Rachel Cooke, the COO and Awards Program Leader at Brandon Hall Group, underscores the initiative's distinct focus on genuine employee feedback over mere HR policies. The aim is to recognize companies where employees truly feel the positive effects of initiatives created to improve their workplace experience. These awards recognize organizations that actively fulfill their promises of being people-centric.
The Application Process
Organizations interested in applying must provide comprehensive details about their initiatives, measurable outcomes, relevant metrics, and employee testimonials. Each submission is expected to undergo a thorough evaluation process, ensuring that all participating organizations receive constructive feedback from judges, which can aid in their continuous improvement.
Upcoming Announcements and Celebrations
The winners of the Excellence in Action Awards will be announced in December 2025 and celebrated at the highly anticipated HCM Excellence Conference scheduled for February 2026. Award recipients will receive various forms of acknowledgment, including a digital badge, certificate, PR guide, and other promotional opportunities.
Open to All Industries
This program invites organizations of every size and from all industries around the globe to participate. An entry fee of $575 USD is required for each application.
About Brandon Hall Group
Brandon Hall Group is renowned for hosting the HCM Excellence Awards, which are the epitome of recognition in Human Capital Management. For over three decades, these awards have established the gold standard for honoring organizations that demonstrate innovative and effective HCM practices.
What sets the awards apart is the participation from a diverse array of companies, from multinational corporations to smaller firms, showcasing their groundbreaking achievements across more than 150 categories. The awards process is comprehensive, ensuring that winners not only receive global recognition but also valuable feedback that drives their growth.
Empowering Organizations for the Future
At Brandon Hall Group, the commitment to celebrating excellence is paired with a strong emphasis on sharing best practices that can move the industry forward. Their awards program is foundational to their mission of fostering excellence in organizations worldwide and advancing the HCM profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Excellence in Action Awards?
The Excellence in Action Awards recognize organizations that excel in creating employee-centric workplaces where individuals feel valued and engaged.
Who can apply for the awards?
The awards are open to organizations of all sizes and industries globally, encouraging wide participation.
What is the deadline for submissions?
Applications are accepted until mid-October 2025.
What do award winners receive?
Winners will be celebrated at the HCM Excellence Conference and receive a digital badge, certificate, PR guide, and promotional opportunities.
How can organizations participate?
Organizations must submit their initiatives, measurable impacts, and employee testimonials as part of the application process.
