Read Full Mix Marketing’s latest marketing how-to column from the September 2019 edition of ‘Connected’ magazine from Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce: https://issuu.com/connected-magazine/docs/connected_issue_80/40

Would winning an award help your business grab attention and grow? Sarah West of Full Mix Marketing shares her top tips for creating a winning business award entry.

Answer the Question

A common mistake made by many businesses is to simply write about what they are most proud of, rather than satisfying the specific entry questions.

Carefully identify the important qualities mentioned and make sure you directly answer what they ask. Regardless of other strengths you demonstrate, you may not be considered unless you first spell out how you meet or exceed the awards key criteria.

Keep it Concise

Those vetting entries will likely begin by scan reading, so summarise or consider using bullet points, before elaborating further. Make appropriate use of the word limit but don’t pad as a punchy application is more likely to succeed than something long winded.

Avoid jargon or excessive details about your product or industry. Those assessing may lack specific sector knowledge, so keep language plain and explain why key details are important by providing simple context. If you include supporting evidence, make sure you refer to it directly.

Tell a Story

Many awards are won by companies who have been on a ‘journey’. Winners are often those with the most compelling story which supports the award’s objectives.

Explain your inspiration, the steps you took and the impact. Stick to the point and only include details which help build the narrative. Look at your entry as a whole and make sure it flows from start to finish.

Find the Pearl

Meeting the criteria alone is rarely enough to win, so try to identity the factor or achievement which sets you apart. If you’re the first, best or most daring, make sure the reader knows.

Statistic are a strong way to communicate success so summarise your achievement with simple numbers. Talk in relative terms if 150% growth sounds more impressive than a £10K increase!

Take Your Time

If it’s worth entering, do it well. Plan your submission and make sure you get someone outside your organisation to read it and consider their comments. If there is scope for visual design, present your entry in a clear, professional and appealing way.

For more help creating a winning entry contact us today.