Winning an award is more than just a trophy for the shelf, it’s a powerful tool to build credibility, enhance your brand, and grow your business. Whether you’re a startup or a growing company, awards can set you apart from the competition and open doors to new opportunities.
At activ Marketing, we know the impact awards can have, not just for PR but for social media, SEO, and building trust with customers. Our CEO, Katie Bullon, understands this well, not only as an award-winning entrepreneur but also as a judge for the prestigious StartUp Awards and EWiF Awards. Her role gives her a behind-the-scenes look at what makes businesses stand out in these competitions.
So why should you consider entering awards, and how do you choose the right ones?
How Awards Boost Your Business
- Public Relations (PR) Power
Awards give you something newsworthy to shout about. Even being shortlisted can lead to press coverage, local media features, and industry recognition. If you win, it’s even better! Press releases, interviews, and blog content can help you reach new audiences.
- Social Media Visibility
Imagine the buzz when you announce you’re a finalist or winner! Social media loves a good success story, and awards give you valuable content to share. They also encourage engagement, as customers and industry peers congratulate and support you.
- SEO and Website Traffic
Many award organisers publish winners on their websites, linking back to your business. These backlinks can improve your search engine ranking, making it easier for potential clients to find you online. Plus, award-winning businesses are often seen as more credible, helping with conversions.
- Personal Brand and Business Credibility
If you’re building a personal brand, awards help position you as a leader in your field. They show that industry experts recognise your hard work, giving you an edge in networking and new business opportunities.
Choosing the Right Awards: 3 Things to Consider
Not all awards are created equally, so it’s important to be strategic in choosing where to apply. Here are three things to keep in mind:
- Credibility Matters
“In my opinion, apply for credible awards that don’t ask for entry fees and where you can see credible past winners, judges, and organisations,” says Katie Bullon. Do your research—look at past winners and the judging panel to ensure it’s a respected award.
- Relevance to Your Industry and Business Goals
Applying for an award that aligns with your business sector or expertise will have the most impact. If you’re in marketing, a marketing award carries more weight than a generic business award.
- The Value Beyond Winning
Consider what you get out of the process. Will you make great connections? Will it boost your reputation among customers? Some awards offer networking events, feedback from judges, or media exposure that’s valuable, win or lose.
Final Thoughts
Applying for awards isn’t just about winning, it’s about the journey. The process forces you to reflect on your business achievements, craft compelling stories, and showcase your value to the industry. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your company, awards can be a game-changer for PR, social media, SEO, and credibility.
At activ Marketing, we encourage business owners to put themselves forward and celebrate their successes.
With our CEO, Katie Bullon, judging the StartUp Awards and the EWiF Awards, we know firsthand the impact that awards can have on emerging and established businesses alike.
So, what’s stopping you? Find the right award, put your best foot forward, and let your success shine! If you need PR and award application support, get in touch with the team!
