Entering an award is a great way to celebrate the hard work that you and your team do every day, while also raising your profile within the industry. Winning, or even being shortlisted, helps to position your organisation as a leader in cybersecurity, and demonstrate to clients and prospects that you’re at the top of your game.
There is a wide range of awards available in the industry for either businesses or individuals to enter but it can be a bit daunting to know which to enter and where to start with your entry.
Evaluate the awards
With so many awards available, it is essential that you select the right ones to enter. This can be difficult and will sometimes come down to previous knowledge of the awards themselves or of the organisation running them. However a few things to look out for are cost of entry, how extensive was publicity for previous winners, where and when the award ceremony is and cost of attending, how the awards are judged, the caliber of the judging panel and ultimately how well the awards categories match your organisation’s experience and skills.
When it comes to cost there are a few well run and respected awards that are free to enter and even provide free tickets for those shortlisted to attend the ceremony. However, that’s not to say those that have paid entries should be ignored, this decision needs to based on how prestigious they are and the benefits of winning.
Understand the Criteria
Once you have selected the awards you want to enter, it’s crucial that you take the time to review the award’s criteria and whether your entry addresses them. Judges are looking for entries that clearly align with the award’s purpose and objectives, so make sure you spend the time reading their guidelines and paying close attention to the requirements of your category.
Structure your submission to align with the questions or guidelines of the category. This will not only make sure that you have covered everything but also show the judges that you have paid close attention to their criteria.
Tell a Story
Judges are looking for you to tell your story in a clear, concise way and highlight what makes you stand out from your competitors. Your entry should paint a clear picture of the solution you’re providing and how it is helping to solve the main challenges. Who has this solution helped? Why is it needed?
A well-told story will not only keep the judges engaged but will make your entry more memorable.
Make It Easy to Read
Judges are busy people and likely reviewing hundreds of entries including yours. It’s a good idea to split the entry to draw the judges into the most vital information and make it clear to read.
Break up your text with punchy but relevant headings and present the most important data using bullet points.
Showcase Innovation
Judges are looking for unique approaches to everyday challenges. Make sure that your entry highlights what sets your solution or team apart from the others. This is where you can really focus on the “wow” factor without overcomplicating your answers.
The judges will want to see proof, so make sure you back up your entry with data or case studies that show your success.
Be Authentic
One of the most important elements to consider is that your award entry is authentic. It can be easy to tell if you’ve exaggerated claims to try and make your entry sound the best. Let your brand’s personality and unique voice shine through. Being genuine will not only help to build trust with the judges but ensure your submission feels credible.
At PRPR, we have a proven track record of helping our cybersecurity clients select and win prestigious industry awards. We can support with the award entries all the way up to the awards evening and beyond to ensure you get the most from them.
Get in touch with our PR and marketing experts today by emailing pr@prpr.co.uk to put your cybersecurity company on the map.
