Don’t Judge Me

They say it’s an honour just to be nominated.

Although, it’s usually said through clenched teeth.

But let me tell you, it’s also an honour to be asked to judge.

As a result, I’ve spent a few very happy few months sitting on judging panels for various industry awards.

But while it’s great to be asked, and I’m happy to play a part, the truth is I didn’t fully appreciate the work involved.

I know, I know. 

Working hard or hardly working?

But honestly, judging other people’s work is a tough job.

I guess all those years on the other side of the process have given me an appreciation for where the entries are coming from.

I’ve slaved over those entry forms.

I’ve gathered the data.

I’ve written the summaries.

So I owe it to the entrants to give their submissions the time they deserve.

But when the standard is so very high (and it really is) judging becomes increasingly difficult.

In that spirit, I’d like to share the benefit of my experience.

You’re going to be 1 of 20 or 30 in a category.

You need to stand out, be memorable.

Tell a story, but make it short, because wading through an ocean of text is hard.

Wading through 30 is downright impossible.

Make the key take-outs stand out.

Bold, colour, highlights – it’s your choice.

Think about what is background information, and what was key to your success.

Videos and images all help tell your story.

Yes, I know some awards give you forms to fill in and ask you to stick to a format.

But here’s a little secret - everyone sticks to the format, but some think to add appendices.

Judges are (sort of) duty bound to see everything, I know I did.

Results, results, results.

The more impressive the better.

And don’t underestimate the value of a great client endorsement.

(I know clients don’t want to go overboard but try and make them energetic)

And finally…

Sorry to be that guy, but check your spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Individually, it’s not vital, but when reading entry after entry it can become wearying.

So good luck.

Be brilliant.

And remember me in your acceptance speech.