Awards Generate Big Human Capital Rewards

Every year Fortune magazine releases its list of America's Most Admired Companies. We believe award winners need to be mindful of mining the value of corporate awards such as this.

Just committing to the rigors of a business award application -- staffing, research, filling out entry forms, writing, editing, proofing, fact-checking, etc. -- strains resources for any business. And while winning recognition may seem like the pot at the end of the rainbow, maximizing "award impact" takes additional effort to ensure a full and complete payoff or reward.

We've guided clients in creating highly innovative communications programs that are in-place and ready to roll when the news breaks, reaping the reward many times over from the initial announcement's value. Such communications resonate the award's value with both internal and external audiences, building longer term real value.

In our experience, and with our help, companies doing such things know that there's a return of value to the company well beyond the resources invested in making the grade. When an organization receives a significant award, it's very important to take advantage of the benefits that accrue. Immediate first steps include:

• Build widespread credibility
• Engage skeptical mid-managers in positive messaging
• Provide senior leaders platforms to leverage the award

Looking outward, consider all of the stakeholder audiences beyond the organization who will be positively impacted by news of the award. To maximize the positive affect of the award, it's essential to:

• Stand uniquely apart from others on an award list
• Target actionable audiences with customized messages
• Integrate extensively and quickly with ongoing public programs

We'd really enjoy sharing more insights with you. Please give us a call or send an email if you're intrigued by the notion of earning greater rewards from awards.