We are thrilled to partner with leading awards management software AwardStage. They are experts in helping to build awards programmes that celebrate excellence, across all sectors.
If you've ever thought about launching your own awards programme, this Summer might be the perfect time. And AwardStage have some top tips to help you get started…
Seize the Summer
It might feel a bit bleak to be the only one in the office while everyone else is sipping piña coladas by the pool (or that's how it feels, anyway), but there are some upsides – honest!
Not only do you get the pick of the desks, you can also make the most of the quiet time to get ahead of the game. Summer is the perfect time to prep for your awards programme launch – and trust us, your future self will thank you for it!
How to Launch your Own Awards Programme
Start with the big picture
Use these quieter summer weeks to map out your awards journey from start to finish.
Think about the entire programme from the pre-launch prep to the post-judging review – how will you promote the awards? What categories will you include? What are your timelines? Who will the judges be?
Getting the fundamentals sorted now means you won't be scrambling come autumn when everyone's back from holiday, and hitting the ground running.
Build your dream team
Summer's more relaxed pace means it can be easier to have those important conversations with potential judges, sponsors, and stakeholders.
People are often more available for planning chats when they're not drowning in deadlines, so lock in your key players now, and you'll have a rock-solid foundation when launch time arrives.
Get your tech sorted
Don’t leave it until the last minute to check your awards platform is as you want it to be – use the summer lull to test everything including entry forms, payment systems, and the judging set up.
Top tip: Run through the entire process with a few colleagues and iron out any wrinkles ahead of time.
Create your content calendar
Awards programmes live or die by their marketing.
Summer gives you breathing space to plan your promotional strategy, write compelling category descriptions, and create all those essential assets like entry guides and FAQs.
Your launch will feel much less fraught if you're not writing everything last-minute.
Getting support with your Awards Programme
Admittedly, getting your awards organised isn’t quite as glamorous as sunning yourself in St Tropez, but just think how smug you'll feel when your competitors are playing catch-up in September, while you're confidently launching a polished, well-planned programme.
AwardStage are on a mission to help you to ‘do awards’ in the very best way possible. Just as entrants want to demonstrate that they’re the best, Award Stage ensure organisers are building the best awards programmes.
With clients across a vast range of industries – from creatives and publishing, to charity and corporate social responsibility… and everything in between!
Whatever your realm, AwardStage provides a robust solution to manage your awards programme, whatever the season. For more information on how they can support you with your awards programme, visit their website and get in touch here.
