1. Be Specific

Make use of facts and statistics back up any claims about performance or the outcome of your nominee’s actions. 

2. Match your content to the criteria

Always write to the brief. First, read the criteria carefully (eligibility, category description etc.) to make sure your nomination is eligible and in the right category for the best chance of a top result. Second, make sure that what you write meets what the judges are looking for. List the criteria and tick it off as you progress if need be.

3. Strong start

Make your nomination stand out from the beginning with a strong start, an eye catching fact, a great quote about the nominee or something that you think brings your entry to life.

4. Don’t make assumptions

Your nominee may be well known to you, but don’t make the assumption the judges will have heard of them, know of them or be familiar with them or their work. Make sure the detail of their accomplishments is spelt out and easily understood.

4. Avoid jargon, acronyms and clichés

Write as though you are presenting to a person who doesn’t know anything about the profession, industry or the person you are writing about.

7. Focus on the extraordinary

Think of what sets your nominee apart from their peers and others in their field. Once you’ve decided what those are, present them with clarity and evidence wherever possible.

8.  Make the supplementary information count

The judges will have many entries to get through, so choose carefully any supplementary evidence you choose to attach to your entry. Make sure what you attach is relevant and remember: quality is always better than quantity.

9. Choose your language carefully

Write in an active voice and use appropriate descriptive words. Do not overdo it and veer off into hyperbole. Provide context, background, facts and figures described and presented with colour.

10. Spell check and proofread

Essential to the professionalism of any presentation.