A client recently asked if business awards were worth entering. My answer? Yes! The accountancy profession (as does most other sectors) has several awards ceremonies throughout the year. Current events in the pipeline include the Accounting Excellence Awards which are run by AccountingWEB.
The benefits of business awards
I know a lot of accountants and professional firms who enter business awards because they get a lot of benefits out of them. Here’s why:
- If you’re shortlisted you can maximise your publicity in the run-up to the event with articles in the local/regional press, your website, social media, email signatures, just telling clients, etc.
- If you win (and why wouldn’t you?!) there are usually lots of photos and publicity opportunities afterward which the organisers will generate, and where possible you should share this information on social media, your website and email newsletters.
- If you win a business award you can usually add the award logos and links to your website, stationery and email signatures to promote your achievement to the world at large for the next 12 months.
- It can set you apart from your competitors (especially if they have entered the same category and you beat them!)
- The awards ceremonies offer a networking opportunity to mingle with other local businesses that may have a need for your services.
- The awards night also gives you the opportunity to attend, either as individuals or you could book a table and take along a selection of clients as a ‘thank you’ for their custom.
- Or you could book a table and take your staff as a thank you.
- Or book two tables and take a mix of clients and staff!
Other reasons for entering business awards
There are also additional benefits of entering (and winning) business awards:
- It demonstrates your expertise and credibility within your profession.
- It’s good for staff morale.
- It can help in the recruitment process of future staff if they see you as a progressive firm that is constantly getting good media reports.
Tips for entering business awards
However, before you get too excited and start sending off applications left, right and centre, do consider the following:
- Read the award category criteria carefully. What information will you need to provide and do you have access to such information, e.g. financial information, client testimonials, examples of your work etc.
- Only enter awards where you think you’ll be a serious contender, don’t just enter every category and hope for the best – be selective. Ask yourself, what do we excel in doing?
- Are you (or key members of your team) available to attend the night of the awards ceremony? If not, you’re going to miss out on the PR side and networking opportunities these events offer.
- Don’t miss the deadline for the entries!
How to benefit from business awards without entering
If you really don’t like the idea of entering your firm into a business awards category, you may prefer to sponsor a business award instead. Our blog, ‘Business awards – maximise your profile without entering’ sets out the many benefits which can be gained from sponsoring local, national or regional business awards.
If writing the awards nomination puts you off submitting an entry. I can help! I have experience of entering (and winning!) regional and national-based business awards. Email vicki@momentumforprofessional.co.uk to discuss your requirements
