Rushing to meet a deadline? Here's how to still shine.
Hey there, last-minute award nominator! It happens to the best of us—time flies, deadlines loom, and suddenly you’re in a crunch to submit. But don’t worry! As someone who’s spent decades in marketing and content creation (and squeezed out plenty of last-minute entries myself), I’ve got a few solid tips for making your award nomination shine. After all, at Business Intelligence Group, we know what judges want to see—and I’ve learned a thing or two along the way!
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💡Start with the “Why”
If you’re rushing, it’s tempting to jump right into writing about what you’ve done. But stop for a second and think: Why does this entry matter? Frame your story around the reason your nomination stands out. For example, if your client revolutionized customer service with AI, focus on the “why” of their journey. Did it make their customer’s lives easier or create a first-of-its-kind experience? Judges are people too—they love a compelling story that shows why your work matters!
📈 Use Data to Show Impact
Data is your friend in award nominations! Even in a rush, taking a minute to add measurable outcomes can make a world of difference. Did the campaign boost leads, increase engagement, or achieve a killer ROI? For instance, if you’re nominating a PR campaign that generated major buzz, showcase how it drove traffic or boosted brand sentiment. Numbers don’t lie, and they’ll help judges see the real impact behind your work.
🤏 Get Clear, Get Concise
When time’s tight, clarity is key. Use short sentences and clear points. The best award entries are those that communicate big ideas simply. One trick: Pretend you’re explaining your project to someone completely outside your field. If your Director of Marketing created a brand-building campaign, use clear terms like, “The campaign reached 1.2 million people,” or “Customer engagement rose by 30%.” Skip jargon and make every sentence count.
🗣️Include Real-World Testimonials
You’ve got the “why,” the data, and the clear copy. Now, add a human touch! If you can, sprinkle in a quick quote from a client, customer, or team member. Real voices can make your nomination feel authentic. For example, “The feedback from our clients has been overwhelmingly positive,” or “Our employees feel even more engaged after the project.” It’s quick, but it adds a lot to your story.
📝Proofread, Then Proofread Again
Nothing says “rushed” like a nomination full of typos or incomplete thoughts. If you can, set aside five minutes for a final proofread (even if that means reading it out loud). You’ll be surprised by how much clarity a quick second pass can add. This little step makes a big impression on judges—and it’s worth every second!
Hope this helps and good luck!