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Results. Recognition. Reputation.

The rewards of entering awards programs

Why should you enter your work into an awards program?

  • Become more strategic, results-oriented when planning new projects.
  • Document efforts and results.
  • Review projects from last year to identify award-worthy work.
  • Receive non-competitive evaluation by distant judges since entries are evaluated and scored on their own merits.
  • Receive non-biased recognition for your work.
  • Establish a reputation for quality work.
  • Grow stronger in our skills and industry. You may not win the first time you enter, but you will learn more about the four-step process and how to improve future entries. 
  • Earn current awards to keep resume up-to-date.

What can you learn by entering?

  • Follow a strategic process for greater success.
  • Take time to do formal and/or informal research to help develop goals and objectives.
  • Include a basic budget in your submission.
  • Make sure stated goals are broad and objectives are specific, measurable and include time frames.
  • Begin implementation only after research is complete and goals and objectives are defined.
  • Tie your evaluation back to your initial objectives.
  • Remember to include feedback, such as lessons learned and reports to management.
  • Being evaluated is humbling.
  • Always be open to constructive criticism.

How are entries evaluated?

  • Individual entries are evaluated on their own merits.
  • Entries compared with others only when considered for Judges’ Choice and Best of Show.
  • Award-winning entries demonstrate process and results, beyond tactical excellence.
  • Research, planning, implementation, evaluation
  • Judges look for evidence of the four-step PR process.
  • Organize your supporting documents to follow the four-step process.
  • Judges read project profile sheets in-depth, then review your attached support materials.
  • Judges have only 15-20 minutes to spend on each entry.
  • Proof your submission. Points may be deducted.
  • Read the rules and follow them!  Points may be deducted.
  • Don’t include everything. Points may be deducted.

Excerpted from a presentation made to PRAM Mississippi Beach chapter, Jan. 9, 2012 by:

  • Ron Barnes, APR, Coast Electric Power Association.
  • Samantha McCain, The Focus Group.
  • Kristie Aylett, APR, The KARD Group PR/Marketing.

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