Enter that business award! Writing award nominations that stand-out

Writing award nominations requires a unique skillset with distinct characteristics that set it apart from other forms of business writing. Crafting an award entry that stands out to the judges requires a combination of attention to detail, exceptional storytelling, and clear evidence of merit. Here’s how to make your business award entry stand out for the judges.

Align with the criteria

It might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many award submissions miss the mark on this one! Specific award programs and each category will acknowledge and reward different things. For example, one might value innovative solutions to problems, while another prioritises exemplary customer service or incredible growth. This is why it is absolutely crucial that you carefully read through the criteria to first consider if this is the right awards program or category for your business. Also, don’t forget to read the small print. This is where restrictions are detailed around the qualifying period and what category you are eligible for depending on elements like the size of your business. This will allow you to plan your response in alignment with the criteria, and ultimately, answer the question effectively.

Evidence is king!

Judges often tell us when they’re reading through award entries that they are struck by how many entrants fail to give evidence for the claims that they make. For example, award entrants/nominees might talk about their innovative solution, but not explain how or why it is innovative. Or, how they achieved an increase in revenue for their business, but not explain the level of the increase (in percentage) or how they achieved this. Wherever possible, give quantifiable evidence for your achievements, using metrics, data, and concrete results to underscore the achievements. Numbers often speak louder than words, as they offer a clear measure of impact and success. This might include statistics on the percentage increase in revenue, social likes, comments, leads, conversions, gross profit or the number and value of media coverage, for example.

Impress with clarity

How will judges be impressed by your drive and achievement, if your award entry isn’t engaging, clear and free of jargon? A well-organised entry is the result of careful planning, and it will ensure that judges can easily follow and understand your narrative. This is why it’s important to plan out your response, taking time to consider what the best initiatives, examples and statistics best showcase your achievements.

Be yourself

Some believe that using complex, stuffy language is necessary to impress. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Judges can tell when an entry has been written with enthusiasm. Genuine passion can be infectious and it makes your entry more compelling. So don’t be afraid of being authentic. It might just be the thing that makes you stand out from your competition and wins you the award.

Be honest

Most judges have read hundreds of submissions, which means they know that success doesn’t come without challenges and setbacks. If you try and over-embellish your response or worse, hide your mistakes, your claims will come without all-important solid evidence, or there will be clear gaps in your submission. This can throw the credibility of your whole submission into question. The judges are more interested in how you dealt with challenges, rather than the challenges themselves.

Every word counts

Do exactly what is asked of you, whether that’s about word count, format, or additional materials. Entries that don’t comply can be disqualified or disregarded at the outset. Yes, it’s frustrating when you have so much to say and yet you only have a 400-word limit. But remember, everyone else is in the same boat. Your ability to communicate your achievements succinctly will go a long way in setting your submission apart from the rest, so look for ways to cut out words, without diminishing the meaning. Additionally, consider focusing on the most important initiatives or biggest successes. It’s better to explain one or two initiatives in detail and with solid evidence, than to simply list a whole series of them.

Edit and proofread

Make sure you carefully edit and have your responses proofread before submission. Typos, grammatical errors, or factual inconsistencies can create a poor impression and detract from the credibility of the submission.

Australia’s most successful business award writers

At Award Writers, we are Australia’s most successful and experienced award writers. We’ve written many, many hundreds of successful award entries. In fact, 98% of our clients are shortlisted, and of these, more 73% win their category. If you’ve been nominated for a business award or are considering entering one, rest assured your entry is in safe hands with Proof Communication’s award writers. Contact Award Writers at 02 8036 5532 or 0448 566 377 or Contact Us.