When it comes to business awards, most small-business owners will tell you they just don’t have the time. There’s a misconception that it’s a lot of effort that isn’t worth the end result.
As a small-business owner, I have always felt that entering business awards is a chance to re-assess your business path and your goals.
This year, our team at Pakko entered The Telstra Best of Business Awards and from the moment we laid eyes on the application process, we knew it would be a challenge.
Throughout the application process, we examined ourselves, our business vision and our purpose, in a way we have never really done before.
As the months went on, we delved into the depths of our manufacturing production flow, efficiency model and our values.
It was clear that at every stage of the process our business choices were under a microscope. Every decision we’d ever made was questioned – it was daunting, yet exciting at the same time.
In November 2021, Pakko was announced as a State Finalist in the category for Accelerating Women & National Finalist for Progressing Australia. Then, in April 2022, we were announced as the winner of the National Award, for Progressing Australia.
Was it worth the effort? The answer is a resounding yes.
Winning this award has allowed our business to be recognised for our leadership in Australian manufacturing and packaging. In doing so, raising the profile of the Australian Made industry and shining a light on small, local business leaders who drive the economy every day.
If you have ever thought about entering a Business Award, this could be your time. For our team at Pakko every awards experience has helped our business and it may benefit yours by:
- Raising your business profile and credibility
Enter noteworthy awards that are relevant to your business sector. Whether you make it through to finals or win, you have an opportunity to raise the profile of your business and brand. In addition, most awards have their own PR, which will help you with media and social exposure and some even provide an awards accreditation badge that you can apply to your products or emails. - Community recognition
Depending on the type of small business you own, you might choose to showcase community activity in the business award. For example, you might focus on your sustainability practices and the positive impact they make on your local community. - Team bonding
For most small-business owners, the chance to spend quality time brainstorming with their team is a luxury. Yet, this is part of the process for most business awards – it’s a chance to view your business from the lens of your team and your community. You have the chance to challenge and question your business purpose, vision and mission – a process that is instrumental in the growth of every small business.
Nominations for the 2023 Telstra Best of Business Awards are now open, and I encourage all small-business owners to be courageous when it comes to participating in awards that will help them on their entrepreneurial pathway.
This year, I am joining a prestigious line-up of judges on the panel of the 2022 Inside Small Business Top 50 Small Business Leaders awards, the ultimate in recognition for small-business owners. Join us and be part of a team of business owners from all around Australia who are changing the way we do business.
