I’ll always remember my first awards ceremony. Walking into the North American SABRE Awards in New York City, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. As the categories and winners’ names began to flash on the screen, anticipation built in the room. Then, an hour later, I had the honor of walking across the stage to accept an award on behalf of rbb Communications and our client. That moment wasn’t just a personal highlight; it was an example of why awards matter. Of course, it is incredibly rewarding to be recognized for our work, but winning awards also builds credibility, demonstrates value and reinforces that the results you deliver truly make an impact.
But here’s the reality: for every moment in the spotlight, there are hundreds of entries behind the scenes that never make it to the stage. Submitting awards is a time-consuming and competitive process – from finding the right opportunities, to shaping the story, to crafting entries that resonate with judges. For busy marketing and communications professionals, it can feel daunting. That’s where rbb’s awards team can help.
Here’s why awards should be a part of your PR program, and how the right approach can elevate your reputation.
Trust that Matters
In today’s competitive landscape, credibility is key to making your mark. Did you know that 75% of consumers are more likely to choose an award-winning company over competitors? That’s because clients and customers want to partner with companies and skilled professionals who are proven to achieve meaningful results. Awards deliver that validation instantly. But winning also takes strategy, storytelling, and experience to stand out in the crowd of nominees.
Buzz Beyond the Ceremony
Award wins can increase brand awareness and often come with built-in media exposure such as press coverage, social media promotion and networking. They boost searchability and raise brand visibility that can even lead to new business. Imagine scrolling through your feed and seeing your company celebrated in the news, or opening your inbox to find a potential client who discovered you after reading an executive’s “40 Under 40” award announcement in the local business journal. That’s the kind of momentum a single win can create.
Stories Worth Celebrating
Awards are also content goldmines. They are stories that showcase the challenges you’ve overcome and the success you’ve accomplished. By utilizing the right media channels and promoting your win across blog posts, social media, case studies, newsletters and client presentations, it will strengthen your reputation as an industry leader. Working with an integrated agency partner can also further elevate that exposure to help your content move the needle and reach the right prospects.
Pride that Inspires
Awards aren’t just about external recognition — they matter internally, too. Employees want to belong to organizations they can be proud of. When employees see their hard work turned into award-winning stories, it creates a ripple effect of pride and motivation. Plus, recognition is a magnet for talent – 69% of job seekers are more likely to apply to companies known for their culture or industry accolades.
Your Spotlight is Waiting
From that first walk across the stage to the many client wins we’ve helped celebrate, at rbb, we have refined the art of crafting award-winning entries to help companies and executives stand out among the crowd. With a proven track record of turning submissions into wins, we can help you cut through the noise with strategic storytelling that makes you shine.
The stage is waiting. The applause is ready.
Connect with us today and we’ll guide you on your way to victory lane.