Awards are a fantastic way to gain recognition for your achievements, whether it’s your innovative business practices, impactful community work, or exceptional individual skills. But too often, businesses use these as a sales pitch rather than highlight their achievements and stand out among so many worthy contenders. The key lies in crafting a compelling and meticulously curated submission that showcases your value and leaves a lasting impression on the judges.
Here are the key ingredients for a winning award entry:
- Understand the Criteria: Before diving in, thoroughly read and internalize the award’s specific criteria. Each award will have its own set of judging parameters, so ensure your entry directly addresses them. Don’t waste time and effort writing about irrelevant information, even if it’s impressive; focus on what the judges are looking for.
- Tell a Compelling Story: Numbers are important, but don’t let them drown out the narrative. Craft a story that captures the essence of your work and its impact. What problem are you solving? What challenges did you overcome? How have you made a difference? Use vivid language, anecdotes, and even visuals to bring your story to life and engage the judges on an emotional level.
- Quantify Your Impact: While storytelling is captivating, facts and figures add weight and credibility. Back up your claims with quantifiable data, including statistics, measurable results, and concrete examples of your success. This shows the judges the tangible impact you’ve made and validates your achievements.
- Stay Concise and Error-free: Judges typically receive countless entries, so brevity is essential. Stick to the word count and prioritize the most relevant information. Every sentence should contribute to your narrative or support your claims. Proofread meticulously to ensure your entry is free of typos and grammatical errors, as they can reflect poorly on your professionalism.
- Tailor Your Message: Resist the urge to submit a generic entry. Instead, customize your response to the specific award you’re applying for. Highlight the aspects of your work that directly align with the award’s values and objectives. This demonstrates your genuine understanding of the award and your dedication to its core principles.
- Proofread and Seek Feedback: After crafting your entry, take a step back and reread it with fresh eyes. Ask colleagues, mentors, or even friends to review it and provide feedback. Their objective perspective can help you identify areas for improvement and ensure your message resonates effectively.
By following these tips and putting in the effort, you can create an award entry that stands out from the crowd and increases your chances of receiving the recognition you deserve. Remember, a well-crafted submission requires time, dedication, and strategic planning, but the potential rewards – increased visibility, validation of your work, and a sense of accomplishment – are well worth the investment.
If you want help with an award entry, book a free slot here.
