The OpenWater Blog

4 Things You’re Doing Wrong On Your Awards Website

There are a million things to keep in mind in preparation for the launch of your awards program and at the top of that list is creating the perfect website. Sometimes in the whirlwind things get left out, or skimmed over. It may not seem like a big deal, but such mistakes could have a negative impact on your awards program. Here are four pitfalls to avoid and how to fix them:

1. Burying the submission tool
You want people to submit to your program, right? Of course, you do. So don’t bury your submission page on your website. You want people to find it (and all other information) as quickly and easily as possible.

It is easy to discourage an applicant from submitting by having a confusing and hard-to-navigate website. You need a clear call to action for submission. Make sure your call for entry page is easily accessible and contains all relevant information, including the submission link.

2. Assuming applicants know as much as you
…because they don’t. You know the ins and outs and every-which-ways of your program, but the average applicant has little to no idea about your unique submission process. Make sure all the text and information on your website is clear and consistent.

To avoid running into this problem comb through your site with the eyes of someone who has never seen it (or have someone in your organization unfamiliar with the program do so). Try to find and eliminate any possible hitches or confusing language.

3. Disparate branding from your organization
While your awards program should have its own unique flavor, you don’t want to deviate too far from your organization’s brand. Your awards website should have a similar look and feel as that of your organization’s, allowing people to easily identify the program with your organization.

Relating to your familiar, reliable brand increases trust with people, an asset you don’t want to jeopardize by deviating too far from it. Uncertainty about who is running the awards program could make a difference in whether someone applies or not. Also, keep in mind the huge marketing potential your awards program can have for your organization!

4. Overlooking your judges
Not listing your judges is a missed opportunity for several reasons. A page dedicated to your judges is a good marketing tool because it allows you to highlight these people and their significance to your industry or field. It simultaneously lends more legitimacy to your program: having someone with extensive experience in your organization’s field judge shows the importance of your program, while also establishing your organization as an expert.

Create a page for your judges with a photo and a short bio that explains their experience and qualifications. If you haven’t picked your judges yet, that’s ok, but don’t forget to announce them when you do.

What pitfalls have you avoided or fixed in the past?

Miriam Hancock

Miriam Hancock
Miriam is the Marketing Coordinator for OpenWater. When she isn't writing and designing content she paints and cooks for her own personal blog.

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