What Winning Awards has Taught Me About Marketing
Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Business Women UnLtd Summer Event, celebrating 15 amazing years of supporting women in business.
The day was made even more special when I was unexpectedly presented with a Special Recognition Award as part of the Shining Star Awards.
As someone who is usually far happier celebrating my clients’ successes than talking about my own, I was genuinely touched.
But as I reflected on the award afterwards, it got me thinking about something I often discuss with clients…
Why do awards, recognition and networking matter from a marketing perspective?
After all, a shiny trophy doesn’t automatically bring in new customers.
Or does it?
Awards Build Trust
One of the biggest challenges small businesses face is helping potential clients feel confident enough to choose them.
When someone discovers your business for the first time, they’re looking for reassurance.
Have you helped people before?
Are you good at what you do?
Can you be trusted?
Awards, testimonials, reviews and recommendations all help answer those questions.
They provide independent validation that you’re doing something right.
Recognition Reminds You To Tell Your Story
Many business owners are brilliant at what they do but terrible at talking about it. (I include myself in that.)
Receiving recognition gives you permission to pause and reflect on how far you’ve come.
It’s an opportunity to share your journey, your values and the impact you’ve had on your clients.
That’s not bragging. That’s marketing.
Networking Creates Opportunities You Can’t Predict
One of the things I love most about Business Women UnLtd is the relationships.
At the event I was surrounded by people I’ve known for years, people who have become friends, people I’ve collaborated with and people I’ve had the pleasure of supporting as clients.
Most business opportunities don’t arrive because someone saw a perfectly crafted social media post.
They happen because people know you, trust you and remember you.
Networking helps make that happen.
The Real Value Isn’t The Trophy
The award itself is lovely and I’m incredibly grateful for the recognition.
But the real value comes from the relationships, conversations, referrals, recommendations and trust that have been built over time.
Marketing isn’t just about websites, social media posts and email campaigns.
It’s about visibility, credibility and connection.
Awards and recognition can play a small but important role in building all three.
Thank You
A huge thank you to Business Women UnLtd for the nomination, recognition and award and for creating such an incredible supportive community over the past 15 years.
And thank you to all of the clients, collaborators, networking connections and friends who have supported The Marketing Hive over the last (almost!) 11 years – wow!
This award may have my name on it, but I certainly didn’t get here on my own 🐝
