Writing business award submissions isn’t just about filling out forms; it’s an art and science that involves strategic planning, honest self-assessment and strong storytelling. Having written over 200 business award submissions, I’d like to share some key lessons to help guide you through this process.
Planning & Preparation are Essential
From my experience, one of the most significant takeaways is the critical role of preparation. Clients who incorporate awards into their marketing strategy, and prepare ahead of time, often find themselves at a competitive advantage. These clients identify and target specific award programs well in advance, providing them ample time to analyse the questions and compile the necessary information for a compelling award submission.
Ensure that entering and potentially winning an award aligns with your business plan or organisational strategy. This understanding can shape which award programs and categories you should focus on. For instance, if you aim to highlight your community involvement, target categories that emphasise corporate social responsibility.
Evaluate Your Strengths and Achievements
Dedicate time to thoroughly review the eligibility criteria and questions associated with the awards. It’s crucial to conduct an honest assessment of your accomplishments in relation to the questions. Can you answer each question thoroughly and honestly?
Consider the following:
- Have you achieved notable milestones within your industry or community?
- Are you able to demonstrate how you’ve navigated specific challenges in your business?
- Do you have compelling examples that showcase your success?
- Can you share anecdotes about your contributions to clients, your team, or the community?
- Can you provide quantifiable data, such as a X% increase in turnover or profit margin, to illustrate your successes?
If you lack confidence in these areas, it may be wise to postpone your submission until next year. A submission filled with half-hearted responses is unlikely to achieve success.
Start Early
Procrastinating over writing your business award submissions is a recipe for disaster. Last-minute efforts tend to be rushed, lack detail and often overlook essential components or fail to address the criteria. Asking for an extension makes you appear unprepared and unprofessional, which undermines your portrayal as an award-winning business – and your request may well be denied. By starting early, you allow yourself ample time to draft, edit and refine your submission, ensuring that it is polished and compelling.
Tap Into Your Team
Your team is an invaluable asset when it comes to preparing a business award submission. Collaborative brainstorming sessions can generate a wealth of innovative content ideas and highlight achievements that you might have otherwise overlooked. Involve friends and family in the process, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your clients. Gaining insights into the positive impact you’ve had on them can reveal powerful stories that will make your submission stand out. Whenever possible, include these client narratives with their permission.
Be Honest – with Yourself and in Your Submission!
Authenticity is key when it comes to writing a winning business award submission. The judges are seeking genuine responses and are turned off by overly formal language or blatant self-promotion. Ensure you use a conversational tone that embodies your brand’s personality, don’t be overly salesy and
While you obviously want to highlight your achievements, it’s vital to ensure your submission is based on accurate facts. Don’t include any so-called achievements unless you’re able to substantiate or prove them. Be sure to use statistics to support your accomplishments.
If a winner is awarded through misinformation or inaccuracies, it’s a hollow victory. Authenticity builds credibility and trust.
Exercise Caution with AI
While AI can be a valuable tool for drafting submissions, it should never replace your unique voice and personal experience. Avoid copying and pasting AI-generated text without thorough editing. Tailor the content to accurately reflect your message and align with your business’s voice and values.
It’s important to note that the judges will be reading dozens of entries, so they can easily identify unedited AI-generated content, which is often very similar to your fellow competitors who’ve also used AI! Remember, your score will reflect this.
To illustrate this point, here’s a recent post from an awards judge…
Final Tips for Your Business Award Submissions
Crafting effective business award submissions goes beyond just showcasing your accomplishments. It’s about presenting those achievements in a compelling, authentic manner that aligns with your business’s goals and values. Through careful preparation, honest self-assessment and captivating stories, you can create a submission that resonates with the judges and enhance your chances of success.
Remember, winning an award is not just recognition; it’s a testament to your hard work, dedication, and the positive influence your business has on its clients and community. Prepare meticulously, share your story authentically, and allow your achievements to shine.
The Next Step…
Need expert help with your award submission? We’re here to assist! Visit our Contact page to schedule a discussion about crafting your business award submission.
Don’t keep these valuable insights to yourself! Share this post with friends, family, colleagues, and your LinkedIn network. For regular updates, connect with Lyndall on LinkedIn.
Looking for more tips on writing a winning business award submission? Check out these useful articles:
- Australian Business Awards Suggestions
- Expert Tips for Polishing Your Award Submissions
- How to Write a Winning Business Award Submission
Click here to find out more about our expert Business Award Submissions Service.
