One of my clients asked me this question the other day and said “Anyway they are a bit self promoting aren’t they? People put themselves forward just so that they can say on social media that they have been nominated!”
Well there’s a conundrum. In some cases, yes that is the case, but in other’s it’s not. Some organisations will ask for votes from the public or their members, some are based on industry reputation and excellence.
And even if it is the case, what is wrong with that? If you won’t promote yourself then who will? There will be an independent panel of judges that choose the finalists and then vote on the winner, so even if you put yourself forward, its not a given that you will be successful.
So is it a good marketing exercise? In my view definitely yes. The publicity surrounding the event will positively promote your brand and becoming a finalist (if you are lucky) is good for your reputation.
In addition to the marketing opportunities it provides, the buzz it will generate within your business can’t be bought, having engaged teams who are proud to work for you will make yours a great organisation to work for and there is nothing better than employees who bang the drum about your business!
So, don’t be shy, research what awards are available to you and make sure you spend time completing the application form as it’s this that you will initially be judged on.
Good luck!