Results. Recognition. Reputation.

The rewards of entering awards programs

Why should you enter your work into an awards program?

• Become more strategic and 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 your 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 are 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, APR, USM Children's Center for Communication & Development
• Kristie Aylett, APR, Fellow PRSA, The KARD Group PR/Marketing