Why Chasing Awards Isn't My Style, But Here's Why It Should Be Yours

Okay, let's dive into a rhythmic debate that's been as popular in the business world as cold brew in Silicon Valley: the glitzy allure of top company awards. Being a serial entrepreneur, I've had my fair share of back-pats and handshakes at award galas. But let me peel back the curtain on what these awards really stand for and why, maybe just maybe, you should care about them (even if I find the whole affair more overrated than a viral TikTok dance).

What's the Big Fuss About Business Awards?

So there I was, at yet another awards ceremony, suited up and feeling out of place like a border collie at a cat show. The room sparkled with the so-called "best of the best," all eager to snag another shiny trophy for their mantelpieces. But here's the twist: these awards aren't just about hoarding metal and glass.

Awards, particularly those for ‘Top Company’ or ‘Creative Business’, are like the Oscars for entrepreneurs. They validate your hard work and put a spotlight on your team, propelling your brand into the stratosphere of market visibility. Plus, they're a magnet for investor interest. Who knew?

But here’s the kicker: winning isn't just about being the best; it's about being seen as the best. In a world where perception often trumps reality, these accolades can be the difference between being a footnote and being the headline.

The True Perks of Winning Business Awards

Despite my internal eye-rolls at these grandiose events, I can’t ignore the perks. When my company bagged the ‘Trailblazing Business Award’ last year, our inbox exploded with partnership offers. And yes, the revenue spike was pretty sweet too.

But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The real gold isn't in the trophy; it's in the opportunities that suddenly line up at your door, ready for the taking. And guess what? Some of these opportunities have turned more heads than when I brought my husky to the office (and that's saying something).

So, What Really Makes an Award-Winning Company?

• Innovation that sticks – like that time I revolutionized our product line overnight, thanks to a midnight eureka moment.
• Customer love – because when your customers are ready to tattoo your brand on their forehead, you know you're doing something right.
• A killer team – think Avengers, but in the business realm. My team’s the real superhero squad.
• Resilience – because what’s a success story without a few plot twists?
• And, a dash of good, old-fashioned luck – because sometimes, the stars just align.

From my experience, winning these awards can feel like your best day fishing – unexpected, thrilling, and deeply satisfying, especially if you're into that sort of thing (I'm more of a campfire and starry skies guy myself).

But Here's the Catch...

All that glitters isn't gold. While the accolades are great, they're not the be-all and end-all. At the end of the day, it's about impact. Making a dent in the universe, à la Steve Jobs, but without the turtleneck obsession. It’s about creating value that lasts, not just a trophy that gathers dust.

Do these awards define my business? Heck no. But do they open doors that otherwise might stay closed? Absolutely. It's a game. And if you know how to play it, well, the world's your oyster.

Final Takeaway

Rounding up, should you chase these awards like a Border Collie after a frisbee? Maybe. If it aligns with your vision, and you're in it for more than just the bragging rights, go for it. Use them as stepping stones, not milestones.