Awards…why bother, you’ll never win!

Of course, all trade award winners are selected on merit…the greater the client’s ad spend, the more they merit an award!

If that client is not your client then I would think twice before booking a table at the now mandatory awards dinner.

But our recent client award successes have compelled me to share a few nuggets that may help you experience similar success, and hopefully temper the cynicism:

1. You don’t have to win to be a winner!

As your agency, our job is getting you to the finals. Being a finalist makes a statement to the market that you’re a contender, one to watch.

Take for example the 2016 Olympic 100m Men’s Final: Based upon previous performance, no one was really going to challenge Usain Bolt for the title. However, the other seven athletes, five of whom were first-time finalists, generated and shared considerable media coverage and raised awareness that propelled them into the limelight.

2. Put in a performance!

The award organisers favour entries that demonstrate effort – they can see that you value their award. Don’t just submit the mandatory 300 words form; support it with compelling evidence: testimonials, past editorial coverage, photography. Treat it as a new business pitch.

3. Showmanship is a good thing!

Submitting a hard copy booklet can have a maximum impact! You can make a good first impression with the judges using digital printing, a cost effective solution for short runs. Use the same tactic for online entries by creating a PDF booklet.

4. Brag a little!

If you get shortlisted as a finalist, you’ve earnt the right to boast a little. Tell all your customers and supply chain partners that they’re backing a winner.

Don’t forget to tell your employees too: while the marketing and sales departments will happily take all the credit, much of what goes on in the factory contributes to creating the brand that customers want to buy.

Awards are good but remember; if you’re not in it, you can’t win it!

The times we’ve been in it:

Finalist: Electrical Industry Awards 2024 – Hamilton Litestat

– Lighting Product of the Year – Controls

Finalist: Electrical Wholesaler Awards 2019 – Hamilton Litestat

– Best Training Provider

Winner: Voltimum Smart Solutions Awards 2018 – Hamilton Litestat

– Best Manufacturer of Smart Controls

Winner: Electrical Industry Awards 2015 – Kosnic Lighting

– Light Source Product of the Year

Finalist: Lux Awards 2014 – Hamilton Litestat

– Controls Innovation of the Year – Highly Commended

Finalist: Electrical Industry Awards 2014 – Hamilton Litestat

– Innovative Residential/Domestic Product

Putting together an awards entry isn’t difficult, especially when you have a stellar product or service. However, it’s very time consuming. If you’re short on time but overflowing with aspiration, I’m here to lend a hand. Contact me at steve@oilthewheels.com and let’s turn potential into recognition.