Work can sometimes feel like a home away from home. After all, most people spend 40 hours or more a week at work. So it is not uncommon for coworkers to become like family and when a family member gets a promotion, it’s cause for celebration. Congratulating a colleague on her promotion is a great morale booster, plus it’s a chance for the office to express the pride they feel for the honoree. Coworkers can show how happy they are for their teammate in ways ranging from low-key tributes to over-the-top celebrations.

Say It With Words

An understated and low-key way to congratulate someone on a job promotion is in writing. A personalized letter expressing pride and joy on the accomplishment is a nice way of showing support. If the entire department shares the sentiment, you may want to consider getting a card and having everyone sign it. You can find cards for practically every occasion, including job promotions. You may also send a congratulatory e-card or email to someone who is not well-known or not in your immediate department. If you are unsure what to write, check the Microsoft Office template website for ideas.

Days Off

After working so hard to achieve a promotion, it would be nice to have a day off to relax and recoup before starting the new job. Sometimes the best way to reward an employee for a job well done is to give him a day off. Managers or human resources associates can congratulate an employee on the accomplishment of a promotion by granting him additional personal days or vacation time. Some organizations grant employees additional vacation time as they advance in the company. It's a great incentive for employees to work harder for advancement.

Showering Them With Gifts

Giving a gift in recognition of a promotion is a more tangible way of showing your feelings for an associate. It also gives your teammate something that will always remind her of you. For a work colleague, desk accessories make great gifts. Having the gift engraved with the person’s name or a congratulatory message is a nice touch. Portfolios and picture frames also make acceptable gifts for the occasion. Team members who are especially close may consider a scrapbook of team pictures for the coworker to take to the new position.

Throwing a Party

Throwing a party to celebrate a team member’s accomplishment is a great way to show pride in his efforts. It’s also a team-builder because it brings everyone together. On another note, it shows the advancing team member that there are no hard feelings, which will make his transition even easier. While a party during work hours is nice, an after-work party will allow people to feel more relaxed. It also offers greater choices in venues and the chance for spouses and family members to participate.