It’s time consuming and requires dedicated staff to managing the process so why do organizations have awards programs? We polled a group of contest administrators using the BetterBNC awards platform for their print journalism, broadcast and PR contests to get an idea of why they hold annual contests.
- The majority of those polled indicated that awards programs and recognition provide member news and PR organizations with a marketing opportunity to differentiate themselves from competitors.
- Contests provide individuals with recognition that can help them advance their careers.
- Respondents also indicated that they believe the spirit of competition improves the overall news or PR product. (Here’s a great blog on how student contests lead to better news stories)
- Ultimately, contests can increase involvement, membership and awareness of the sponsoring organization.
Many contests are beginning to see growth in the number of individuals and organizations entering contests which some attribute to the ease of online entries. (Click here to read more about OCPRA which has experienced 15-20% growth.) Digital platforms are also making it possible to keep entry fees manageable as the much of the processes are now automated and require less staff involvement. Contest administrators who feel their contests have limited potential for growth are now exploring opportunities that can be created by using BetterBNC’s Open CallSM feature which allows freelancers and non-members to make entries. Contest administrators also tell us that they’re finding it easier to recruit judges when they offer online entry evaluation and rating.
Contact BetterBNC at 360.427.6300 to schedule a complimentary demo or learn more about our contest platform which is now being used by nearly 200 awards programs across North America.
