Throughout your life, you have either been the recipient or the giver of an award or accolade at some point. These are great ways to recognize someone within your organization. Awards are given out by many publications and chambers, are you pursuing them? That may sound a little boastful but it may be a local award that will push some more sales over the line for your business. The free publicity and notoriety are amazing ways to get your name out there.

Here are 4 ways to get awards and accolades for your business:

Research local and national awards that fit your business best.

• Focus on your industry.
• Look into local magazines or industry magazines.
• Chamber of Commerce or similar groups often offer awards.
• Include your local government in your research.

Look at previous winners of the awards you come across.

• What size business are they?
• Do they advertise with the publication?
• How active are they in the community?
• What is their story? Do you have anything in common with them

Get feedback on applications as you complete them.

• Send applications to others to proofread and give suggestions before you submit.
• Talk with previous winners about their experience.

Advertise news of the award every chance you get.

• Use it on email signatures.
• Publish a Press Release.
• Share the news on social media.

Sometimes things like this can come across like a brag but you have to brag about your business – if you don’t, who will? Be proud of your accomplishments and build your business with the notoriety. Use the awards to grow to the next level, set a goal to get an award a year for marketing reasons.

Now, go and find awards to win in your local community!