Tips for Successful Award Applications

Make sure to read the guidelines thoroughly, carefully assess the evaluation criteria, and respond to every question as requested. Each award has unique requirements, so it’s crucial to tailor your responses accordingly. Remember, if you have any doubts or uncertainties, don’t hesitate to reach out to the award organizers for clarification. Asking a question will never disqualify your entry.

Most awards focus on successful projects, but it’s not just the end result that matters. Awards committees want to see a structured approach that includes an initial needs analysis, an exploration of alternative solutions, a strategic design, clearly defined goals, and measured outcomes. They also want to know your vision for the future. Following this phased approach will strengthen your application significantly.

Your goal is to capture the judges’ attention and keep it alive throughout your application. Many awards rely heavily on written applications, so a compelling story is your best tool. Create a narrative that ties your achievements together, emphasizes the impact, and enables the reader to connect with your journey.

Visuals can enhance your story—but only if used effectively. Limit the use of graphics, diagrams, and images unless they add substantial value and clarity. Each visual should serve a purpose and be accompanied by an explanation. Remember, unclear visuals or images without context can do more harm than good.

It’s easy to get caught up in describing every aspect of your project, but awards are not just about what you did—they’re about what you achieved. Maintain a balance between showcasing your efforts and highlighting measurable results. Keep the focus on your impact.

Even if you have an impressive project and compelling narrative, you need evidence to back it up. Avoid vague phrases like “we received positive feedback.” Instead, provide concrete data, testimonials, and measurable outcomes to substantiate your success.

Incorporating feedback from stakeholders, sponsors, or customers can strengthen your application by offering a diverse perspective. Aim to include endorsements from senior management or external partners to demonstrate the broad impact of your initiatives.

Find someone outside your organization to review your application with fresh eyes. They may notice gaps or unclear points that you might have missed. An independent review can provide critical insights before submission, helping to refine your entry.

Picture yourself not winning the award despite your strong project and a well-prepared application. Why might this have happened? What would you change or improve? This thought experiment can help you identify weaknesses and make final adjustments.

Leverage the awards process for organizational growth. Many award programs provide feedback on submissions—use these insights to enhance your future entries and strengthen your internal processes.

Award applications require substantial time and effort. Maximize this investment by repurposing your application for other national and international awards, adapting it as needed. This not only saves time but also broadens your chances for recognition.

By following these tips, you can significantly enhance the quality of your award applications and increase your chances of gaining the recognition your organization deserves. For more specific guidance, check out our Stevie® Awards Application Guide and Brandon Hall Excellence Awards Application Guide, or feel free to reach out to our team of award experts for further support.