168: Putting Your Best Award Entry Forward with Sophie Milliken

What separates an award entry that makes the shortlist from one that gets passed over, when both businesses are doing equally good work?

In this solo episode, Sophie shares her practical advice on writing award entries, drawing on years of helping founders and senior leaders put themselves forward for recognition. She covers what judges are looking for, the mistakes that cost entrants marks, and the simple steps many people skip when they are rushing to meet a deadline. Sophie explains why you should always ask someone else to read your entry before you submit it, ideally a person who doesn’t know your business well enough to fill in the gaps for you. She talks about backing up every claim with evidence, from figures and growth numbers to client feedback, and how to make proper use of the supporting documents section rather than leaving it empty.

She also encourages entrants to get in touch with the organisers if they are unsure about a category or a question, something very few people think to do. The episode then turns to what happens next. If you are shortlisted or win, Sophie walks through how to make the most of it with a press release, social media posts and other ways to keep the recognition working for your profile long after the ceremony.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

Why a second pair of eyes can improve your entry

Using evidence to support every claim you make

Making the most of the supporting documents section

Contacting the organisers for advice before you submit

What to do if you are shortlisted

How to share a win through press releases and social media

Connect with Sophie:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sophie-milliken