Industry Awards Help Boost Brand Reputation — and Sales. Here’s How to Apply to Win

Winning an industry award is like earning special recognition that can make a big difference for retailers. It's not just a shiny trophy on a shelf; it has the power to boost a brand's reputation and increase sales. When a retailer wins an award, it exemplifies being trustworthy, reliable and respected. Customers look for these qualities when choosing where to shop, and awards provide that stamp of approval. It's like a special badge that shows customers they can trust the retailer.

The benefits of winning an industry award go beyond just customers, too. It also boosts the morale of employees. Employees who feel appreciated and recognized for their efforts are likelier to work harder. And retailers can win various types of awards, such as those for the best salesperson or for being innovative. These awards show that the retailer is doing something special and sets them apart from others. Therefore, winning an industry award is a big deal for retailers. It boosts their reputation, makes customers trust them more, and creates a positive work environment for employees.

Here are some tips for applying to business awards and how to win:

1. Highlight your distinctiveness.

Ask yourself what makes your company different from the rest. You've done this before to find your product-market fit, so think along the same lines when expressing that to award givers.

Communicate what sets your retail business apart from the competition. Whether it's your exceptional customer service, innovative products or unique approach, emphasize the qualities that make you stand out.

2. Tell your brand story.

Share the narrative behind your brand — its origins, values and mission. Craft a compelling story that resonates with customers, creating an emotional connection and establishing trust and loyalty.

3. Stay relevant.

Continuously adapt to evolving market trends and customer needs. Stay ahead of the curve by offering innovative solutions, staying up-to-date with industry developments, and demonstrating your commitment to meeting the changing demands of your target audience.

4. Earn reputable nominations.

Seek nominations from renowned individuals or organizations within your industry. Being recognized and recommended by reputable sources adds credibility and authenticity to your brand, enhancing your chances of winning industry awards.

5. Utilize statistical data.

Support your nomination with relevant statistics and data. Numbers and figures provide tangible evidence of your success, such as increased sales, customer satisfaction ratings, or market share. This data reinforces your claims and strengthens your case for winning an award.

With these tips in mind, your retail company will be on its way to victory awards. But what you do with that industry award once you’ve won is just as important, if not more.

Industry awards are free PR for your company, but you must know how to market them right. Maybe it’s through the crystal awards lining your shelves for investors to see or through the award mentioned in your email signature. Make those industry awards visible to your stakeholders. That can be the consumers you’re trying to woo over to customers, an employee you're trying to hire, or an investor you're trying secure. Awards prove beneficial in boosting various business needs and operations.

Mike Szczesny is the owner and vice president of EDCO Awards & Specialties, a dedicated supplier of employee recognition products, branded merchandise, and athletic awards.