Long before I started my business, I knew the value positioning oneself as an expert. Somehow, I knew that it was not enough just to be an expert. Rather, there is a need to have proof of your expertise and to share that proof with others.

As a teenager, what this meant was winning ribbons as a competitive figure skater. Now, I wasn’t on the fast track to the Olympics by any stretch, but I did win a few first place ribbons, thank you very much! These awards not only gave me recognition of my hard work and effort (hello 5am practices three days a week) but it also made my confidence swell. I held myself to a different standard. And others noticed. I was chosen to perform at exhibitions, was offered prestigious roles in skating shows and even got to skate with Olympian Scott Hamilton in his hometown of Bowling Green, Ohio!

As a business owner, the lesson here is that when you win awards, people notice. It becomes a point of differentiation and distinction which helps to boost your brand. Taking time to seek out awards is a smart public relations move because it can boost your own confidence while increasing your credibility at the same time. Not only that, but how would you like to be introduced as “the award winning Business Coach/Architect/Interior Designer…” at your next speaking engagement? Sounds great, right?

Here are few tips that will help you to apply for and possibly win awards:

Do Your Research

Simply head over to Google and search for “<YOUR INDUSTRY> + awards.” See what pops up. You may be surprised to see what is available for your products and services. Also, ask others in your network if they know of local award programs. Contact your local Chamber of Commerce and inquire about awards programs that are available in your community. There are thousands of awards, so be sure to select only the most relevant to your business.

Membership Organizations

Any organization to which you pay an annual or monthly fee may also offer an award program. Be sure to review your benefits or association offerings to see what they may offer.
Your Entry

It’s perfectly fine to nominate yourself. It’s also fine to ask someone who knows your business well do nominate for you. Do what feels comfortable to you. In your entry, keep in mind that judges for awards programs sift through many applications, so make sure yours stands out. This is no time to be shy. Highlight your big accomplishments. Shine a light on the remarkable results you get for your clients and customers or services you provide. Be succinct in how you position yourself for the award. Showcase why your accomplishments position you as a clear winner of the award. Include objective results and measurements if applicable.
Get Prepared

Some awards for business require you to show your commitment to your community. Keep a list of places you volunteer your time and expertise personally and professionally as well as organizations you regularly support financially. If you have thank you notes, email or letters, keep those on hand in case they can help support your application.

Follow the Application Directions

I know this seems obvious, but not everyone follows the directions. I was a judge for a small business awards contest and some of the applicants did not even answer some of the questions! If they specifically request for no samples to be sent, don’t send samples as an “added value” to your application. It will not help you be seen in a favorable light. If you have missed the deadline, don’t bother sending in your application. Rather, note the next deadline and mark it on your calendar for next year.

Follow Up, If Applicable

If they offer you time slots to present your application, by all means, take the opportunity to do so! It will show them your enthusiasm for your work and interest in winning the award.

Promote Your Awards

Once you win an award or even if you are a finalist, promote your accomplishment and recognition! Proudly display the award logo on your web site, frame the award and put it in your office, tell your e-newsletter subscribers, mention it in social media, add it to your bio and press kit, send out a press release and so forth. It’s not enough just to have the award, you must promote it as well!

It’s worth mentioning that many awards have an entry fee. Paying it does not mean that you automatically win the award. Do your due diligence by looking at past winners, determining what made them stand out and how you can use that to increase your chances of winning.

In summary, winning awards is a fantastic way to let others know the value of your products and services while staying within your marketing budget. People like to be associated with winners or people “on the fast track.” Winning awards is great way to do that.

Here are some awards you may be interested in knowing about:

The American Business Awards

Score Awards

Inc 500/500 Awards

Ernst & Young Entrepreneurial Winning Women

Apex Awards – Awards for publications excellence

 

© 2015 Meredith Liepelt, Rich Life Marketing