Top tips for entering business awards

Why business awards are worth your time

Small business awards offer much more than the opportunity to win a prize. There are many benefits to entering awards. They can help you gain recognition, refine your business and open new opportunities.

But with busy schedules and competing priorities, how can you make the most of the process? Here’s advice on how to apply for a business award so you get value from the experience.

How to make your award entry work for you

A well-prepared award entry not only increases your chances of success, it also helps you gain valuable insights about your business. Here’s how to approach the process effectively.

Start early and plan your approach

A well thought out application stands out. Instead of leaving it late to tackle it all at once, break it into smaller steps.

• Check deadlines early so you can allocate time across several weeks. View stage dates to stay on track.
• Gather key information like business milestones, metrics and customer testimonials ahead of time.
• Involve your team as they can provide insights to strengthen your application.

By planning ahead, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and have a stronger, more polished entry.

Explore our tips and tricks for your entry

Tell your story, not just the facts

Business awards are not just numbers. Judges want to see the journey behind your success.

• What inspired you to start your business?
• What challenges have you overcome?
• How has your business made an impact?

A compelling story makes your application memorable. Show your passion, highlight key moments and explain why your work matters.

The Telstra Best of Business Awards has been an incredible adventure. It's given us an incredible opportunity to tell some of the stories, not just of our business but of the research that happens facilitated by our work.

- Kylie Sproston, Chief Executive Officer, Bellberry. Telstra Best of Business Awards. National Championing Health Winner.

Align your responses with the award criteria

Each award has its own focus. Take time to understand what the judges are looking for.

• Read the judging criteria carefully and tailor your responses to match.
• Avoid generic responses and be specific about how your business meets the award’s goals.
• If entering more than one category, make sure each response is relevant and distinct.

This helps ensure your submission stands out for the right reasons.

Use the process to refine your business strategy

Even if you don’t win, the application process is a valuable exercise.

• It encourages self-reflection, helping you identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• It highlights achievements you might not have fully recognized.
• It can spark new ideas for future growth.

The Telstra Best of Business Awards journey is designed to be a business masterclass. The process helps guide entrants through an in-depth look at their business. You can treat it as a strategic opportunity, not just an application.

Entering the awards was a really rewarding process for us. Not only did it allow us to reflect internally on the business, but it also allowed us to look at things we need to continue to improve.

- David Willcox, Director, Common Ground Trails. 2023 Telstra Best of Business Awards. Western Australia Outstanding Growth Winner.

Maximise your nomination for marketing & networking

An award nomination – whether you win or not – can be a great way to promote your business.

• Share your journey on social media, your website and with customers.
• Leverage PR opportunities with local media and industry publications.
• Use events and award nights to meet other entrants, potential collaborators and mentors.

Simply entering can help build your brand’s credibility and visibility.

Ready to apply? Start with Telstra’s Best of Business Awards

A strategic approach makes your business award entry more than just an application. With the right mindset, it becomes a valuable tool for growth, visibility and learning.

The Telstra Best of Business Awards celebrate outstanding small businesses across Australia. Nominations are free and open now.

Nominate your business today