Earning industry accolades can serve as a testament to your team’s dedication, your brand’s innovation, and your company’s impact. However, the myriad of categories available can make the process of selecting award categories seem like an uphill battle, especially when you factor in the time and financial investments. Fear not, for we’re here to demystify the process and set you on the path to recognition.
1. Know What You Want
Before plunging into the award selection process, ask yourself: “Why are we doing this?” Are you aiming for broader brand visibility or seeking to attract potential clients? Perhaps you want to toast to a particular milestone or simply laud your team’s unwavering commitment. By knowing your “why,” you can find award categories that fit just right – and you can leave irrelevant ones behind.
2. Get to Know the Awards
Not all awards are created equal. Spend some time getting to know each one. Look for ones that are big deals in your industry. The prestige of the organizing body, the credibility of sponsors, and the caliber of jurors should also factor into your considerations. Target awards that hold weight in your field and align with your achievements and ambitions. It’s all about finding a good match for what you’ve achieved.
Finding the perfect award can be tricky. If you’re looking for a bit more guidance or insights tailored to your unique situation, check out our services for entrants — we’re here to help make your life easier.
3. Check Out Past Winners
Take a look at who’s won before. Companies like yours? Bigger? Smaller? This can give you a feel for your chances. If brands like yours are often winners, that’s a good sign! However, if they are completely different companies and products, and some that you wouldn’t even want to be seen next to, then it may not be worth the time and effort to enter.
4. Ensure You Tick All Boxes
The devil is often in the details. Some awards have specific rules about who can enter. It may relate to company size, revenue brackets, campaign dates or organizational set up. Maybe they’re looking for big companies over a certain employee size or just startups that aren’t founded longer than 2 years ago. Make sure you fit the bill to avoid any hiccups later.
5. Don’t Be Shy—Ask!
If you’re feeling lost, don’t hesitate to tap into the expertise of the award show organisers directly. They can give you pointers on the best categories for you and maybe even offer some inside scoop to which categories are the most competitive.
By arming yourself with these strategies, you’re not just randomly throwing your hat in the ring; you’re making informed decisions that amplify your chances of being recognized. But remember, it’s not just about winning; it’s about sharing your brand’s story and celebrating the great things you’ve done. But with these tips in hand, you’re one step closer to that victory dance.
