Winning a business award can feel like the ultimate recognition for all the hard work you have put into your business.
But what if I told you that the real opportunity starts before you win?
There are business awards available throughout the year, from local business awards and industry awards to national and community recognition programs. Entering a business award can be a valuable experience, but it is worth thinking strategically about what you want to gain from the process.
Enter with the mindset of winning
When you nominate your business for an award, give yourself permission to expect to win.
That does not mean you will always take home the trophy. I know from personal experience that being a finalist and not winning can be disappointing. I have been a finalist in many Awards including the Moreton Bay Local Business Awards, and while I would have loved to hear my name called, I was also able to celebrate those who did win.
The important thing is not to let the result determine the value of the experience.
The business award nomination process itself can make you stop and look at your business. What have you achieved? What makes you different? What do your clients say about you? What impact are you making?
Take the time to answer the questions thoroughly. Include testimonials, case studies and examples rather than simply rushing through the application.
Being a finalist is something to celebrate
If you become a finalist, you have already achieved something significant.
You have received third-party recognition and credibility, and that can become part of your business story.
Share your finalist status. Use the finalist badge and promotional material. Add the recognition to appropriate marketing materials and talk about it on social media.
You do not have to win the overall award for the recognition to have value.
Your award speech is a business opportunity
If you attend an awards ceremony, prepare your acceptance speech before you arrive.
You may only have a short amount of time, but that moment can put you and your business in front of an audience that may include potential clients, referral partners, sponsors and other business owners.
Do not simply say thank you and sit down.
Use those precious seconds to clearly say who you are, what your business does, who you help and what matters to you.
Your award acceptance speech is not about giving a sales pitch. It is about giving people a reason to remember you.
And remember to celebrate others too. An awards ceremony is about recognition, connection and community.
Make your business award work harder
Whether you are nominated, become a finalist or win, think beyond the trophy.
A business award can provide credibility, visibility and opportunities long after the ceremony has finished.
The question is not simply, “Did I win?”
Ask yourself:
“How can I make the most of the recognition I have earned?”
Because being recognised is wonderful.
But being recognised, remembered and confidently talking about your business?
That is where the real opportunity begins.
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Trish Springsteen
Public Speaking and Confidence Coach, Get Known Be Seen Specialist
Australia’s Leading Expert in Empowering Introverts
Multi International Award Winning Mentor
Inspirational Speaker, MC
International Award Winning Best Selling Author
Host Get Known Be Seen WebTV
I Believe in You until You Believe in Yourself
Clients work with Trish because they know she helps people who have something valuable to say become confident enough to say it — and visible enough to be heard. Trish typically works with small business owners, introverts, authors, advocate, the quiet expert and the emerging speaker/leader. You don’t need to become louder. You need the confidence to let people hear what you already know. Trish helps you go from Fear to Confidence, Confusion to Clarity, Unknown to Visible.
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