Over the years we have worked and build brands through working on awards or nominating clients who went on to win awards. Their initial skepticism of being firstly a) worthy and b) if it was even worth the effort was always puzzling. However, each of them went on strength to strength to gain business and acclaim internationally. Having recently worked the Essex TV Awards and with the Fashions Finest Britain’s Top Designer Award coming up we thought we would cover the importance of entering awards.

London, England. 19 February 2017. Fashions Finest celebrates the fifth anniversary of the competition, “Britain’s Top Designer”. John Herrera, an innovative designer of Filipino heritage took the title. Featured in photo © Peter Hogan

Where ever you are on your business journey, just starting off or further along and no matter the size there are business/industry awards out there you can enter. The variety of awards can range from local to national industry-based or within a specific criterion. To find awards opportunities check with your local chamber of commerce, local and business press or simply search the internet.

Some awards may come with monetary prizes or other benefits like coaching, advice, workshops or further opportunity attached. Regardless it’s not all about winning!

Stretched resources often mean awards nominations are not always the top of the agenda. Here are six reasons why entering an award could be good for your business.

1.Free pr and marketing

Awards are frequently overlooked in your marketing arsenal. Being shortlisted can improve brand awareness and promote your business to new customers. Maximise PR exposure and update your marketing materials with the award logo including business cards, website, literature, email, and sales material. Share and celebrate the award resulting from your hard work and success and utilise great PR opportunities. Being recognised is great so it’s important to make sure that people know your achievement. Winning an award can open doors to getting contracts, finding new supply channels and breaking into new markets.

2.Benchmarking against peers

The application process for entering a business award often makes you look at your business from a different perspective and compare yourself to your competitors. Ensure that you stand out from the competition either through strategic thinking, innovation, diversity, growth, customer service or investment in people.This will identify processes and areas for improvement and is one way of benefiting your business regardless of winning the prize.

3.More credibility

An award win, shortlisting or nomination provides a 3rd party endorsement for your business and can signify a seal of approval and quality for potential customers. Your relationships with suppliers may also benefit. An award helps to differentiate your company from competitors in a positive way.

4.Improved Employee Motivation

Awards nomination and wins also reflect the hard work and achievements of your employees so win so, in turn, can boost staff morale and motivation.

It can focus staff attention on what’s great about the company they work for and instill pride in their work and the company. Leverage this opportunity by making giving your employees the recognition they deserve with a celebratory meeting, dinner or other activity to share the victory. Employees could be invited to the awards ceremony or dinner which can bond the team closer, yield networking opportunities and also be a great night out.

5.Attract talent

Business awards validate you as a great company to work for. This can attract the talent you need to propel your business forward. Don’t forget your motivated existing workforce will also enforce this notion.

6.An opportunity to treat clients and partners and attract new business

Awards are the best way to showcase the calibre of your work. Awards are the perfect backdrop for bonding with partners or customers. Winning or being a finalist improves client retention, and your clients will be chatting with their friends about how great you are. Word of mouth and personal recommendations are still the most influential factor in the buying process.

Glenn Tamplin Essex TV Awards

Essex TV Awards – Winner: Pivaz Restaurant