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When entering international awards, it’s a fact that you’ll have a lot more competition, so it’s vital to write an entry that makes you stand out from the crowd.
So, if you’ve entered awards before or are just beginning but not sure where to start, our ten top tips will serve as a checklist to help you on your award journey.
1. Tell a story
Your story needs to be convincing enough to capture the judge’s attention and keep it. Don’t be afraid to make it personal; something judges can relate to. This can provoke emotional responses from them.
2. Read the criteria, then read it again
Yes, we know this is the boring bit, but it’s so important. Make sure to read the guidelines and judging criteria carefully. Check deadlines, as some might have early birds at discounted rates, and make sure you have the glitzy award ceremony in your diary!
Domestic and international awards will often differ, so always double-check. If you are not 100% sure what the judges are looking for – ask. There is usually an email or form online, and with our experience, they’re very responsive. They want you at the ball, Cinderella.
3. Plan, plan, plan
Once you’re familiar with all the rules, you can now make a plan. Allow yourself enough time to collect the correct data, conduct interviews, and gather any other evidence you will need for your entry. Then there’s writing, editing, and proofing. It’s a longer process than you might think. We suggest working backward from the deadline – allowing at least 6-8 weeks.
4. Numbers to back up your narrative
Statistics and growth percentages provide evidence to back up the points in your story.! If you can demonstrate measurable improvements or provide testimonials from customers, the judges will see this as tangible proof of success which boosts your credibility.
5. Upload supporting evidence
Many awards will give the option to upload supporting evidence., This can include images, testimonials, quotes, screen grabs, charts, and graphs. Create yourself a deck to demonstrate all your hard work – but make sure to check the supporting evidence criteria for the number of pages and format.
6. Use the full word count
The word count is a great indication of the amount of detail the judges are expecting to make an informed decision when deciding on the shortlist. Aim to submit at least 90% of the word count.
7. Imagine you don’t win
Hear us out! When you have written your entry a good technique is to imagine that you were unsuccessful. What would you do to get a few extra marks? This might bring forward something you’ve missed in your first or second draft.
8. Take the feedback positively
Try not to challenge any comments provided by judges, instead use the feedback to improve for next time. This can help your award strategy, and award writing skills.
9. Reuse your entries
Explore categories and awards you can re–use your entry for. You’ve spent a lot of time and effort writing it, you might as well use it for other relevant categories where you can.
10. Good luck!
After all this, you should have an award-winning entry on your hands. But if you need support with your entry, we have a team of specialist award writers ready and willing to help you. With 80% of our entries making the shortlist, we’re proud to help on your award journey. Get in touch today.
