In the world of business, winning an award is a significant honor for a job well done. But for any strategic organization, it’s about more than just the accolades—it’s about the opportunities and trust that come with the award.
So how can you turn your award into a growth opportunity for your business? The right awards can help individuals and organizations gain visibility and new opportunities within their industries and local communities.
Read on for the top 10 ways you can use award recognition to boost your business’ reputation:
1. Focus on Strategic Opportunities
When deciding what awards to apply for, focus on opportunities that reflect your organization’s goals and values. Not all award opportunities will be a good fit, so concentrate your time and energy on those that highlight your strengths and expertise. Awards should also have credibility and visibility in your industry.
2. Boost Credibility and Industry Experience
Winning an award can enhance the credibility of your business by establishing you as an authority in your field. It can also help you stand out by highlighting your industry knowledge and expertise. This credibility helps build trust with the consumer and solidifies you as a trusted professional organization.
3. Expand Marketing Reach
Winning an award will give you access to free marketing opportunities you would not have otherwise had. The organization presenting your award will likely list it on their website and related press releases. Additionally, local radio and television outlets might also pick up the story. All of these opportunities increase your brand visibility and get your message into the ears of potential customers.
4. Leverage Social Media
Use your social media channels to celebrate your success with your followers. Share on all the public platforms where you interact with current and potential customers. And don’t forget to update your company’s website, adding the award’s logo to the “About Us” or “Awards” sections. Remember to include what the award signifies and how your organization represents those values or accomplishments.
Speaking of your company website, blog posts or videos highlighting your organization’s achievements are also powerful marketing tools. You can showcase this media through a company newsletter, including links to drive traffic back to your site. Using social media to celebrate your successes is an effective way of managing your online reputation.
5. Attract New Customers
Winning an award boosts your reputation in your community and gives you an edge over your competition. Using this advantage can help attract new customers while keeping existing ones. Focus on what you provide that the competition does not. Use your expanded reach to highlight your unique expertise. Customers will be more likely to take chances on new products or services from award-winning businesses.
6. Increase Sales
With increased exposure comes the opportunity for increased sales. Your newfound industry visibility will allow you more opportunities for lead conversion, reaching more people and converting more of these customers into sales. Depending on the visibility of the award, your increased popularity may even lead to changes in supply and demand, meaning you might be able to justify an increase in the price of your products or services.
However, be aware that any spike in sales after a big win will be just that: a momentary spike. Work with your business development team to create a long-term strategy that capitalizes on your increased exposure and continues to draw potential customers to your business.
7. Enhance SEO
Increased media visibility goes hand in hand with winning awards. Your company name and contact information will likely appear on several websites and press releases related to your award. This exposure will improve your SEO and brand visibility by providing you with high-quality backlinks and media mentions.
This is especially important if you are trying to counter any negative information about your company that is showing up in search results. You may not be able to remove negative online content, but you can bury it beneath your accomplishments. Give your customers good news to celebrate at the top of their search results to boost your image.
8. Create Networking Opportunities
Use your newfound credibility to connect with members of the community who are doing work you admire. Imagine you receive an award recognizing your environmentally sustainable business practices. Connecting with like-minded people and organizations in this industry would be a meaningful way to make connections and champion a cause that’s important to you.
Leverage tools like LinkedIn to share updates and celebrate successes. These strategic networking efforts reflect well on you and your business.
9. Attract and Retain Top Talent
Good people make good business, and attracting top talent is essential. What better way to show that you’re a great place to work than by winning an award that showcases just that? Sure, receiving an award is great for sales and bringing in new customers, but don’t forget it’s also a powerful tool in retaining talented employees and attracting new ones.
Your team will be proud to work for an award-winning organization and will find greater fulfillment in their work. Additionally, public recognition can increase morale and productivity and foster workplace satisfaction—all of which make for good business.
10. Build Awareness and Visibility
Receiving recognition is about more than just the shiny trophy. It’s about bringing awareness to your brand’s mission and priorities. While winning can feel rewarding, how you use the honor is what truly drives your business growth.
The modern customer is seeking to consume more conscientiously than ever before. Showcasing what your business stands for can give your brand the visibility it needs to attract customers who believe in your mission.
You’ve heard it said before: it’s not the destination, but the journey. While there are many benefits that come from receiving awards, some benefits come from the process of merely applying. Take stock of your company to see what you’re doing well and what needs improvement. Making small adjustments could result in increased sales, productivity, and employee satisfaction.
Use these best practices to turn recognition into growth opportunities for your business and employees. Remember: it’s about more than just the accolades. It’s about opportunity and connection.
