When you want to praise someone, saying “Great job” is quick and polite — but sometimes you need variety, nuance, or more emotional impact. This guide, 30 Other Ways to Say “Great Job” (With Examples), gives you natural, context-aware alternatives that fit professional emails, casual chats, team stand-ups, performance reviews, and social posts.
Each phrase below includes a short, real-world mini-story to show tone and usage, plus a concise example and the best use context so you can pick the perfect compliment every time.
Use these alternatives to sound more specific, authentic, and encouraging — which improves motivation and communication.
Another or Professional Way to Says “Great Job”
- Well done
- Excellent work
- Nicely done
- Outstanding performance
- You nailed it
- Superb effort
- Bravo — great execution
- Impressive work
- Fantastic job
- Stellar performance
- Top-notch work
- You crushed it
- Perfect execution
- That’s exemplary
- You knocked it out of the park
- Tremendous effort
- Hats off to you
- Kudos to you
- You should be proud
- Solid work
- Great execution
- Remarkable achievement
- Amazing outcome
- Exceptional result
- Props to you
- Way to go
- You did that flawlessly
- That’s first-rate
- Thank you — this was invaluable
- You went above and beyond
1. Well done
There was a time in a small team when a junior designer took the initiative to redesign a complex dashboard. They dug into user feedback, iterated quickly, and delivered a version that reduced confusion and sped up task completion. Saying “Well done” acknowledges thoughtfulness and care — it’s concise but sincere, and it communicates that you noticed the effort and outcome. This phrase works particularly well when you want to encourage continued thoughtful contributions without over-embellishing.
Example: “Well done on the dashboard redesign — the users already find it much easier to navigate.”
Best use: Quick praise in Slack, email, or during a stand-up to recognize solid results.
2. Excellent work
When a researcher submitted a clear, thorough report that tied data to actionable recommendations, the team lead replied with “Excellent work.” This acknowledges both the quality of effort and the professional standards met. It’s slightly more formal than “well done” and signals that the output meets or exceeds expectations. Use it when the work has depth, accuracy, and polish — ideal for reports, presentations, or deliverables where precision matters.
Example: “Excellent work on the quarterly analysis — your insights will inform our roadmap.”
Best use: Formal communication like performance reviews, client emails, or official acknowledgments.
3. Nicely done
A colleague handled a tricky client call with calm and clarity, defusing tension and turning the conversation productive. “Nicely done” points to execution and interpersonal skill — it’s warm and conversational while still professional. Use it when the outcome depended on tact, timing, or soft skills rather than just technical proficiency. It’s encouraging without being overblown and fits everyday workplace interactions.
Example: “Nicely done on that client call — you kept everything on track and professional.”
Best use: Informal praise after interpersonal wins or smooth problem-solving moments.
4. Outstanding performance
After a cross-functional team crushed an ambitious launch timeline with flawless coordination, the director said, “Outstanding performance.” This phrase elevates the compliment to highlight exceptional results and teamwork. It implies consistent high standards or a rare display of excellence. Use it when you want to publicly acknowledge a standout achievement that had measurable impact.
Example: “Outstanding performance from everyone on the launch — traffic and retention metrics are through the roof.”
Best use: Company-wide announcements, awards, or when documenting exceptional outcomes.
5. You nailed it
An intern presented a fresh marketing angle that immediately clicked with the audience; the campaign saw instant engagement. The manager smiled and said, “You nailed it.” This phrase is energetic, casual, and conveys both correctness and impact — perfect for creative breakthroughs or when someone hits the brief exactly. It’s friendly and motivating, best used in informal or semi-formal contexts.
Example: “You nailed it with the campaign concept — mirrors exactly what our audience wants.”
Best use: Creative feedback, quick recognition among peers, or casual team chats.
6. Superb effort
When a volunteer coordinated a fundraising drive that exceeded its target despite limited resources, a supervisor praised the “superb effort.” This phrase underscores the input — perseverance, planning, and grit — not just the result. It’s especially meaningful when the outcome was good because of sustained work or because obstacles were overcome. Use it to validate persistence and tenacity.
Example: “Superb effort in getting donors engaged — your outreach made the difference.”
Best use: Recognizing hard work, volunteer contributions, or long-term projects.
7. Bravo — great execution
At the end of a polished product demo, a client said, “Bravo — great execution.” This phrase combines theatrical flair with professional recognition; it celebrates both creativity and follow-through. Use it when someone not only had a great idea but also implemented it flawlessly. The slightly dramatic tone makes it memorable and uplifting.
Example: “Bravo — great execution on the demo; the flow and visuals were spot on.”
Best use: Presentations, demos, launches — moments meant to impress an audience.
8. Impressive work
A team member compiled a complex dataset into clear, visual dashboards that changed how decisions were made. Leadership called it “impressive work.” That phrase signals respect and admiration; it’s ideal for outcomes that demonstrate skill, expertise, or unexpected excellence. It can be used both formally and informally and works well when you want to highlight someone’s capabilities.
Example: “Impressive work turning messy data into such actionable dashboards.”
Best use: Skill-based recognition where technical or analytical mastery is shown.
9. Fantastic job
When a teacher saw a student present a well-researched project, they said, “Fantastic job.” The phrase conveys enthusiasm and warmth — it’s encouraging and celebratory without over-formality. Use it for achievements that deserve joyous recognition, such as milestone completions, excellent customer service, or standout presentations. It resonates especially well in supportive environments.
Example: “Fantastic job on your presentation — clear, confident, and well-researched.”
Best use: Supportive feedback in educational settings, team celebrations, and positive reinforcement.
10. Stellar performance
A sales rep closed a complex deal while maintaining client trust and internal alignment; the VP described it as a “stellar performance.” This phrase elevates the praise toward exceptional professionalism and consistency. It suggests the person performed at the top of their game. Use it when you want to communicate admiration for both skill and results.
Example: “Stellar performance in closing that client, especially under a tight timeline.”
Best use: Sales wins, leadership recognition, or performance highlights.
11. Top-notch work
A senior engineer fixed a long-standing bug and documented the solution clearly so the whole team could learn. The tech lead said, “Top-notch work.” This phrase emphasizes high quality and craftsmanship. It’s concise and carries authority, making it great for technical deliverables, design artifacts, or any output where standards matter.
Example: “Top-notch work on the bug fix and documentation — it’ll save the team hours.”
Best use: Technical reviews, code commits, documentation, and craft-focused deliverables.
12. You crushed it
After a junior copywriter delivered an edgy, viral piece that performed beyond expectations, colleagues cheered, “You crushed it!” This exuberant phrase is modern, confident, and celebratory. It’s best for energetic teams and moments of high-impact success. Use it when someone surpasses expectations in a way that warrants excitement.
Example: “You crushed it with that viral post — engagement spiked overnight.”
Best use: Casual team channels, celebrations, and social recognitions.
13. Perfect execution
A project manager orchestrated a complex rollout that required precise timing and stakeholder coordination. The CEO called it “perfect execution.” This phrase focuses on how well actions were planned and carried out. Use it when the success depended on coordination, timing, and flawless follow-through. It’s particularly fitting for launches and events.
Example: “Perfect execution of the rollout — no downtime and great customer feedback.”
Best use: Launches, migrations, and events where logistics matter.
14. That’s exemplary
A teacher pointed to a student’s portfolio and said, “That’s exemplary.” This term signals that the work sets a positive standard for others. It’s slightly formal and academic, useful when you want to highlight work as a model to emulate. Use it sparingly — it carries weight and signals something beyond routine excellence.
Example: “That’s exemplary work — other students can learn a lot from your approach.”
Best use: Educational recognition, mentorship contexts, and leadership acknowledgments.
15. You knocked it out of the park
When a creative director saw a campaign that exceeded KPIs across the board, they said, “You knocked it out of the park.” This phrase is playful and emphatic, suggesting an extraordinary result that went well beyond expectations. Use it when you want to communicate big success with warmth and excitement.
Example: “You knocked it out of the park — campaign conversions are through the roof.”
Best use: Big wins, high-impact creative success, or team celebrations.
16. Tremendous effort
A nonprofit coordinator managed volunteers across multiple sites and pulled off a successful community event. The board thanked them for their “tremendous effort.” This expression recognizes sustained hard work and commitment, especially where resources were limited. Use it when the result is meaningful and the effort was substantial.
Example: “Tremendous effort — our community outreach reached more people because of your dedication.”
Best use: Volunteer recognition, initiative-driven projects, and long-term commitments.
Also Read This :30 Other Ways to Say “Happy to Discuss” (With Examples)
17. Hats off to you
After an employee mediated a heated dispute and restored collaboration, a colleague said, “Hats off to you.” This idiomatic phrase is warm and appreciative; it’s an informal way to salute someone’s skill, bravery, or accomplishment. Use it for peer-to-peer recognition when you want to be personable and sincere.
Example: “Hats off to you for keeping the team focused during that conflict.”
Best use: Informal acknowledgments among colleagues or friends.
18. Kudos to you
A team celebrated when a member optimized processes and improved cycle time significantly; someone posted, “Kudos to you!” This phrase is friendly and modern, suitable for quick public praise. It’s slightly less formal than “congratulations” and works well in Slack, internal newsletters, or lightweight recognition programs.
Example: “Kudos to you for speeding up the QA process — it’s a big improvement.”
Best use: Internal shoutouts, peer recognition, and casual public praise.
19. You should be proud
When an apprentice completed a polished deliverable that far exceeded expectations, their mentor said, “You should be proud.” This phrase invites reflection and ownership, encouraging the person to internalize their achievement. It’s supportive and emotionally intelligent, ideal for mentoring, coaching, and personal growth contexts.
Example: “You should be proud — the report was thoughtful and thorough.”
Best use: One-on-one feedback, mentorship, and developmental conversations.
20. Solid work
A backend developer delivered a stable release with clear tests and documentation; the reviewer said, “Solid work.” This phrase communicates reliability and competence — it’s understated praise for consistent, dependable performance. Use it when you want to acknowledge dependable results without heavy fanfare.
Example: “Solid work on the release — tests are passing and docs are clear.”
Best use: Routine but important deliverables, steady contributions, and dependable outcomes.
21. Great execution
A social media manager timed posts perfectly around a trending moment and capitalized on audience interest; the marketing head said, “Great execution.” This phrase highlights the quality of implementation — how well the plan was carried out. Use it when timing, coordination, and tactical choices drove the result.
Example: “Great execution on that campaign — timing and messaging were spot on.”
Best use: Tactical successes, campaign rollouts, and coordinated efforts.
22. Remarkable achievement
When a research team reached a breakthrough after months of careful work, leadership called it a “remarkable achievement.” This phrase underscores milestone-level significance and rare accomplishment. Use it for achievements that shift thinking, set records, or open new opportunities. It’s formal and celebratory.
Example: “A remarkable achievement — this will shape our product strategy for years.”
Best use: Research breakthroughs, record-setting results, and high-impact milestones.
23. Amazing outcome
After cross-team collaboration led to a product that delighted customers, the product lead described the result as an “amazing outcome.” This phrase spotlights the positive effect and the emotional response it generated. Use it when the result not only met objectives but also created delight or surprise.
Example: “Amazing outcome — customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Best use: Customer-facing wins, surprise successes, and cross-functional triumphs.
24. Exceptional result
A UX team’s redesign significantly increased task completion and satisfaction scores; stakeholders labeled it an “exceptional result.” This phrase signals above-and-beyond outcomes with measurable impact. It’s ideal for formal reporting and when you want to document excellence in a performance record.
Example: “An exceptional result — satisfaction scores rose by 25% post-redesign.”
Best use: Reports, case studies, and performance documentation.
25. Props to you
A teammate stayed late to support a colleague and ensured a deadline was met; someone wrote, “Props to you.” This colloquial phrase offers casual appreciation and social recognition. It’s friendly and ideal for team chats or social platforms where a relaxed, appreciative tone fits.
Example: “Props to you for jumping in last minute — we couldn’t have done it without you.”
Best use: Casual shoutouts, Slack messages, and peer appreciation.
26. Way to go
A volunteer overcame logistical hurdles and delivered the supplies on time; someone cheered, “Way to go!” This upbeat, simple phrase conveys cheer and encouragement. It’s versatile and works in nearly any informal or semi-formal setting where you want to celebrate success and uplift morale.
Example: “Way to go on getting the shipment out — great teamwork!”
Best use: Quick celebrations, morale-boosting comments, and friendly encouragement.
27. You did that flawlessly
A sound engineer mixed a live recording so well the final audio required minimal edits; the producer said, “You did that flawlessly.” This phrase praises precision and a high standard of craft. Use it when the work shows mastery and near-perfect execution, especially in technical or performance-based contexts.
Example: “You did that flawlessly — the live mix needed almost no cleanup.”
Best use: Performance reviews, craft-based praise, and technical excellence.
28. That’s first-rate
After a consultant delivered strategic recommendations that were both practical and visionary, the client said, “That’s first-rate.” This slightly old-school but elegant phrase conveys high esteem and professional respect. Use it in formal contexts where you want to sound polished and appreciative.
Example: “That’s first-rate analysis — actionable and well-structured.”
Best use: Formal feedback, client responses, and executive-level praise.
29. Thank you — this was invaluable
When a colleague prepared onboarding materials that saved new hires hours of confusion, leadership emailed, “Thank you — this was invaluable.” This phrasing combines gratitude with a recognition of impact. Use it when the work provided clear value and made others’ lives easier — perfect for cross-functional contributions.
Example: “Thank you — this onboarding guide was invaluable for new hires.”
Best use: Cross-team appreciation, formal thank-you notes, and recognition of enabling work.
30. You went above and beyond
A team member added thoughtful extras to a project, anticipating needs the client hadn’t mentioned; their manager praised them: “You went above and beyond.” This phrase highlights that the person exceeded requirements and showed initiative. Use it when someone delivers unexpected added value or demonstrates ownership beyond the brief.
Example: “You went above and beyond — the client loved the added insights.”
Best use: Recognition for initiative, special contributions, and exceptional ownership.
Conclusion
Using diverse, specific praise transforms feedback from routine to meaningful. While “Great job” is effective, choosing an alternative that matches the tone, audience, and effort level makes recognition more authentic and motivating. This guide — 30 Other Ways to Say “Great Job” (With Examples) — gives you phrases for formal reports, casual kudos, leadership recognition, and emotional encouragement. Mix these phrases with details about what the person did well (e.g., “Great attention to detail on the report”) to maximize impact. Thoughtful praise builds trust, improves performance, and strengthens relationships.
FAQs
Q1: When should I avoid generic praise like “Great job”?
A1: Avoid it when the achievement is significant or nuanced. Instead, choose a phrase that highlights the specific result or behavior (e.g., “Outstanding performance” for a major milestone or “Nicely done” for tactful interpersonal wins).
Q2: How can I make praise feel genuine and not rehearsed?
A2: Add a short specific detail: mention what was impressive and why it mattered. For example: “Excellent work on the presentation — your data-driven slides made the recommendation persuasive.”
Q3: Are casual phrases like “You crushed it” appropriate in formal settings?
A3: Usually no. Use casual phrases when you’re among close colleagues or in informal team spaces. For formal contexts, prefer “Outstanding performance” or “Exceptional result.”
Q4: How often should managers give praise?
A4: Regular, timely praise is ideal. Recognize wins as they occur and balance public recognition with private feedback. Frequent, specific praise supports motivation and retention.
Q5: Can I use these phrases in written recognition (email, Slack, newsletter)?
A5: Absolutely. Tailor the phrase to the medium: shorter, punchier praise for Slack; more formal, documented phrases for email or newsletters.
