The OpenWater Blog

What Makes a Successful Awards Program?

Not every awards program is the same, but that doesn’t mean that those in charge don’t operate their program with the same goals in mind. Now, you might be thinking, “But, how can so many businesses in countless industries have the same goals?” To which I answer, everyone wants to be successful, right?

Think about it: your program takes months to prepare, plan, and execute. Of course, this doesn’t guarantee success, but it does give you the opportunity to spend your time wisely on tactics that will end in a successful program, satisfied entrants, and brand recognition for your company. But, what are these tactics you should take into consideration?

Hit the Ground Running Through Careful Planning and Consideration

For most successful programs, the proof is in the planning.

All too often, awards programs don’t take the time to carefully plan everything from the website to the calendar and all of the events that follow. As a result, dates become muddled with holidays, information is difficult to find, and deadlines get pushed back, sometimes causing frustration and confusion for entrants.

Luckily, you won’t have to deal with any of this because you’re going to take the time to plan from the very beginning. So, what should you be planning?

• Website – Your website is the key to your program’s success and will serve as the reference point for your entrants throughout your program. By putting in time and energy from the beginning, you can always rely on your website to carry you through the duration of your program, adding to your success.
• Calendar of Events – Everything from your call for entry (CFE), to your judging and your awards gala should be planned before anything ever gets started. By doing so and determining the amount of time each step will take (while also allowing for a buffer period should any unexpected issues arise) you can make sure that your program runs as smoothly as possible.
• Budget – It’s all too easy to spend more than you want, especially if you haven’t set a budget. However, by taking some time to consider the overall cost of press release syndication, credit card processing fees, transportation, your awards gala, and other factors before ever getting started, you can set a budget and stick to it!

Create a Unique Marketing and Branding Presence for Your Awards Program

Marketing is critical for your awards and of course, marketing doesn’t truly matter unless you have a brand worth talking about. Luckily, you’ll have both because you’re going to invest time in creating a brand and marketing that brand to spread the word of the amazing benefits entrants can reap from participating in your program.

Of course, the simplest way to create a recognizable, unique brand is to tie your program to the core values and goals of your organization. By doing so, entrants can get to know both you and your program at the same time. This creates clarity and consistent messaging that is relatable and recognizable.

Make Sure Everyone Involved Has Their Eyes on the Prize

From your staff to your judges and beyond, keeping everyone on target will directly affect your award program’s success. This means that you should always keep your staff focused on appropriate tasks as the program proceeds while providing the support and guidance that your respected judges need to carry out their jobs as well.

By doing so, and keeping an evaluative eye on your program as it continues, you can be sure that every aspect is receiving proper attention from those most dedicated to it.

Maintain Organization with Awards Software

What do spreadsheets, folders, and other filing systems have in common? The ability to make your awards program a mess fast! In fact, organization is a common issue that most programs fail to address before it’s too late. But luckily, you don’t have to falter in your goals!

Instead, you can turn to awards software that streamlines the process for everyone involved including your staff, judges, and entrants! Just think: no more filing, no more binders, and no more missing paperwork. Instead, you’ll enjoy software that can also help increase submissions and automate processes that frees up more time. And, of course, awards staff members can always use more of that!

Success doesn’t have to be an elusive component of your awards program, especially when you take the proper steps to help guarantee a positive outcome.

Have a cool secret to your awards program’s success? Share it with us in the comments!

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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