Attention all entrepreneurs, innovators and industry leaders: the Northern Star Business Awards are now officially open for entries!
Winning an award can bring about several benefits, from heightened media exposure to instilling a sense of accomplishment among your dedicated team.
However, the path to securing a prestigious award is not without its challenges.
Engage PR, with a track record of crafting over 90 winning award entries at both local and national levels, can be your guiding light in this journey. This concise overview will help steer you in the right direction.
It's worth noting that award victories can even translate into new business opportunities. One of our energy sector clients clinched a contract because an awards judge, upon reviewing their submission, recognised the potential of their innovation for his own company.
The crux of a winning entry lies in storytelling clarity and the effective communication of your unique achievements. Exceptional customer service alone won't suffice; your company must have accomplished something truly remarkable or delivered a series of outstanding projects.
Occasionally, project gems within your organisation may go unnoticed because those closely tied to day-to-day operations might consider them business as usual. The phrase "Aye, but it's just what we do," is a common refrain.
James Donaldson
The award submission can take on various themes, such as substantial growth, innovative successes, intricate project deliveries, support for the next generation, cultural development, community engagement, cultivation of a distinctive corporate identity, successful transitions and diversification – all reflective of your exceptional journey.
Your story's foundation typically includes notable facts and figures as well as third-party validated case studies and testimonials. Each piece of the puzzle contributes to constructing a first-rate submission.
However, to truly stand out, you'll need a 'big hit' – a project, service or innovation that will serve as the centrepiece of your entry.
Crafting an exceptional award entry demands a significant investment of time and effort. If you're contemplating external support, it's advisable to appoint an in-house co-ordinator who can work in tandem with your PR and marketing partner to meticulously assemble your submission.
Chances are, your organisation has a compelling story to tell, but you may be unsure about how to effectively communicate it.
Engage’s client entry clinched a win at the 2023 Northern Star Business Awards, and we're thrilled to announce that we have four client award submissions shortlisted for events in London later this year.
Whether you're a seasoned industry veteran or a rising star, there's a category tailor-made for you at the Northern Star Business Awards.
Business accolades provide a remarkable platform for organisations to celebrate their achievements. From the ensuing media spotlight, which extends your brand's reach, to the positive reinforcement bestowed upon your workforce, fostering a sense of belonging within an accomplished team – securing a prestigious award comes with a myriad of advantages.
The process of compiling an award entry offers the added benefit of providing a comprehensive overview of your business, highlighting strengths you can leverage and weaknesses you can address. It could be a win-win!
James Donaldson is communications director at Engage PR, james@engagepr.co.uk. The Aberdeen firm has worked with ambitious start-ups through to FTSE-listed companies on their communication and media strategies. Entries are now open for the 2024 Northern Star Business Awards. The deadline for submissions is Friday, September 29. For further information on the awards visit www.aberdeenbusinessawards.co.uk