6 Top Tips for Writing a Winning Awards of Excellence Nomination
Our profession is changing the world, but often goes unnoticed.
From addressing the effects of human slavery in our supply chains, to working with Indigenous communities to engage ethically and sustainably, and even building artificial intelligence to drive efficiencies in business processes, the procurement profession is at the intersection of some of the biggest decisions in business today. But the work we do isn’t often given the spotlight it deserves.
Recognition can come in many forms, but industry awards can demonstrate recognition internally to your team as well as to the profession at large. It is an opportunity to reflect on the work you and your team have done over the past year and give it the celebration it deserves.
The Faculty Awards of Excellence are just around the corner, and now is the time to get your team together and prepare an entry.
We get it – starting an application and staring at a blank page can seem daunting. That’s why we’ve got you covered with a handy list of tips to craft an award-winning nomination.
1. Be prepared
Gathering detailed information, sourcing supporting materials, and getting glowing testimonials can take longer than expected. Start your application process as soon as possible to avoid that last-minute rush. Make sure you look through each step of the application to nail down the required information and submit your entry well before the final deadline.
2. Don’t waffle
Judges like facts and stats, not wishy-washy or vague claims that you’ve done a good job. All statements need to be backed up with evidence, with sources referenced.
3. Read the criteria
Ensure you adhere to the entry rules, or you risk losing marks for not answering specific questions. Check the timeframe for each question to ensure everything in your nomination is for work done during the judging period.
4. Take credit
If you’re entering as an individual, make sure you take credit for the category you’re entering for. You’ll lose marks if you start acknowledging the efforts of others or selflessly sharing the glory. Never be shy or modest about praising your own outstanding efforts.
The same goes for nominating others or teams – make it clear that the individual or team alone is responsible for the success. Avoid bringing up anyone not included in the nomination as it can dilute the strength of your entry.
5. Make it easy for the judges
Tell a simple story of a hero’s journey from a seemingly insurmountable problem, through ingenious solution, to results that exceed every expectation. Don’t include anything that doesn’t feed that narrative. Avoid jargon and any acronyms the judges might not understand. In fact, assume they won’t understand them.
6. Explain why it’s award-worthy
What was innovative about it? How did it differ from the usual, run-of-the-mill approach? How do you know it was a success? Why does it deserve a prize more than the other entrants?
Judges are impressed with anything shiny and new that hasn’t been done before.
Are you striving for excellence in your field? Now is your chance to shine.
The Faculty’s Awards of Excellence is the procurement profession’s moment to spotlight high achievers, showcase innovation, celebrate accomplishments and inspire others.
With award categories recognising excellence in sustainability, diversity and inclusion, leadership and more, these awards are the pinnacle of recognition for APAC procurement and supply chain pros!
Winning an award can catapult your career, or the career of your peer, to exciting new heights, and expand your network. Whether you’re nominating yourself or a deserving colleague, it’s now time to seize this opportunity.
Nominations are officially open for The Faculty’s Awards of Excellence. Ready to take the next step towards recognition? Follow the link to start your application today!
