Nominations

How to Nominate Your Business

Does your company impact the retail world with innovation and excellence? The steps are easy, the awards are prestigious, the networking is the best in the business. Let’s get your company seen and celebrated!

How to Nominate Your Business.

1. Select an Award

Research award categories to find the best fit. Select awards that align with your business goals or the message you want to convey. Remember, you can apply for multiple awards each year.

2. Tell Us Why You Deserve It

Write a 500-word story telling us what you do and why. Avoid marketing speak; tell us human-to-human. you will also have the option to upload any supporting materials you have on hand.

3. Pay Your Fee and Submit

There is a nominal, one-time $750 fee for vendor submissions. This fee includes a ticket to the event, VIP Finalist and Winner promotions, exposure to retailers, digital assets, and more.

Steps to Craft a Compelling Story for a VIP Award Nomination

Understand the Award Criteria

Research:

Begin by understanding the criteria and goals of the VIP awards. What specific attributes or achievements are the judges looking for?

Alignment:

Align your story with these criteria to ensure that it directly addresses what the judges value.

Define Your Core Message

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):

Identify what makes your company unique. This could be innovative products, exceptional customer service, social impact, or industry leadership.

Core Message:

Develop a core message that encapsulates your company’s mission, values, and what sets you apart from competitors.

Create an Engaging Introduction

Hook:

Start with a powerful hook to grab attention. This could be an intriguing fact, a surprising statistic, or a compelling quote from a client or employee.

Overview:

Provide a brief overview of your company, including its history, mission, and key accomplishments.

Tell a Story of Transformation

Challenge:

Describe a significant challenge your company faced. This sets the stage for showcasing your resilience and problem-solving abilities.

Solution:

Explain the innovative solution your company implemented. Highlight any unique strategies, technologies, or approaches used.

Impact:

Showcase the positive impact of your solution, using both qualitative and quantitative data. How did it benefit your customers, employees, or the industry?

Highlight Achievements and Milestones

Awards and Recognitions:

Mention any previous awards or recognitions your company has received. This establishes credibility and demonstrates a track record of excellence.

Key Milestones:

Highlight significant milestones in your company’s journey, such as product launches, expansions, partnerships, or social initiatives.

Use Testimonials and Case Studies

Client Testimonials:

Include quotes or stories from satisfied clients or partners who can attest to your company’s impact and excellence.

Case Studies:

Provide case studies or examples that illustrate how your company has delivered exceptional value or solved critical problems.

Emphasize Social and Community Impact

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

Highlight any CSR initiatives your company is involved in. How do you contribute to the community or support sustainable practices?

Community Engagement:

Describe your company’s engagement with the community, such as volunteer work, sponsorships, or educational programs.

Conclude with a Vision for the Future

Future Goals:

Share your company’s vision for the future and its goals. How do you plan to continue making an impact and driving innovation?

Call to Action:

End with a strong call to action, inviting the judges to recognize your company’s achievements and potential by awarding you the VIP award.

Polish Your Presentation

Visuals:

Use compelling visuals, such as images, charts, and videos, to enhance your story and make it more engaging.

Editing:

Carefully edit and proofread your submission to ensure clarity, coherence, and professionalism.

Example Story Structure

Introduction:

  • Start with a compelling hook, such as a client quote or a surprising statistic.
  • Briefly introduce your company and its core mission.

Challenge and Solution:

  • Describe a significant challenge your company faced.
  • Explain the innovative solution you implemented and its impact.

Achievements:

  • Highlight key achievements, milestones, and recognitions.
  • Include testimonials and case studies to support your claims.

Social Impact:

  • If applicable, showcase your company’s CSR initiatives and community engagement.

Conclusion:

  • Share your vision for the future if you want to, and your company’s goals.
  • End with a strong call to action for us to pick you.

Additional Tips

  • Be Authentic: Ensure your story is genuine and reflects your company’s true values and achievements.
  • Focus on Impact: Highlight the tangible impact your company has made in your industry or community.
  • Use Data: Support your claims with data and metrics to add credibility.
  • Be Concise: Keep your story focused and concise, avoiding unnecessary details.

Good Luck!

By following these steps, you can craft a compelling story that effectively showcases your company’s strengths and makes a strong case for winning the VIP award.

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