We’re very excited to be opening this year’s KBDi Designer Awards program and can’t wait to see who’ll be taking out titles in 2021.

Of course, entering your work into an Awards program isn’t all about the win. In this feature, we’ve set out seven solid reasons to put yourself (or your team members) in the running.

#1 Team Morale / Self-Motivation

Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.
Helen Keller

Do your team members need a boost in morale? Do you need a little pepping up yourself? Maintaining optimism has never been more important, and acknowledging your staff’s talent – or your own design prowess – is a great confidence booster.

#2 Marketing & Exposure
The free marketing associated with media exposure for award finalists is both rewarding and measurable. (See just a few examples of finalist promotions here.) You’ll want to use your accolades in all business promotion – on signage, stationery and of course, your website and social media. Be sure to brag – being shortlisted in an awards program like that delivered by KBDi is certainly something to be proud of.

#3 Benchmarking

Benchmarking is an ongoing exercise in any company that aspires for leadership.
Anand Mahindra

By comparing yourself to your competitors, you’ll soon begin to identify areas you need to develop – from a design or business perspective. Alternatively, or at the same time, you may gain faith and confidence in the skills and attributes you already possess. A benchmark is a ‘standard from which quality or excellence is measured’. Award-winning designers are setting the bar for your industry and profession: are you exceeding these standards, or are you on par? What is the benchmark of your business? Are you and your team meeting your full potential?

#4 Respect & Credibility
What do potential clients see in your media exposure? They see a business that is at the peak of its game, offering quality and credibility. You will have gained their trust and respect even before you’ve entered their home. Likewise, suppliers and other associates will recognise your achievements – this could open new doors to securing contracts, better prices and new industry contacts.

#5 Differentiating You from Your Competitors
We’re in a competitive industry, and it’s not uncommon to be contending for design. Will your award recognition put you ahead of your competition? Could it be the deciding factor for a quality client? Highly likely! Stand out from the crowd with your accolades.

#6 Staff Recruitment
Who doesn’t want to be part of a winning team? Attract new talent – those who aspire to ‘be the best’ will be looking to join like-minded professionals. Your award participation will let future team members know you’re a goal setter, and you’ll attract motivated employees to your business.

#7 Big Picture Perspective: Benefits to the Industry
By recognising and celebrating the high standards that exist in our industry, we encourage others to ‘lift their game’, and we provide the media – and potential new customers/clients – with case studies of excellent design practices. Be proud of your profession and industry, and know you’re paving the way for those who’ll follow.

Entries to the KBDi Designer Awards 2021 program close on 1 June. You’ve got to be in it to win it, so why not put yourself in the running? Download the entry pack here.