The Value of Recognition: Benefits Beyond the Trophy

Beyond the glamour of winning trophies and receiving applause at the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards ceremony, the awards hold significant value that goes beyond mere recognition. Let's delve into how being part of these prestigious awards can change businesses, enhance credibility, attract new customers, boost employee morale, and establish valuable industry connections.

1. Credibility and Trust: The Silent Currency

When your business earns recognition from the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards, it's more than just a badge to display. It becomes a mark of approval—an endorsement from industry experts and peers alike. Let's delve into how credibility works its magic:

Industry Validation

Winning an award signifies that your business has undergone thorough evaluation and emerged as outstanding. It's not merely a pat on the back; it's a sign of approval from the industry itself. Potential customers, partners, and investors take notice. They place their trust in the judgement of impartial judges who have carefully assessed your merits. This validation isn't temporary; it's a valuable asset that appreciates over time.

Differentiation in a Crowded Market

Picture a busy marketplace, filled with countless options. In this bustling environment, an award helps you stand out. When people browse through listings or menus, they pause when they see an award. It plays a role in determining their decisions. They understand that behind that accolade lies dedication to excellence — a promise that your business consistently delivers exceptional results.

2. Attracting New Customers - The Ripple Effect

Winning an award isn't just a fleeting victory because it extends its influence far beyond the moment of triumph. Gillian Currie, business manager at Douneside House, can vouch for this truth. Their regional win at the Aberdeen City & Shire Tourism Awards propelled them onto the national stage in 2022 as they went onto secure the Scottish Thistle award.

Gillian said, “Being announced as a regional winner at the Aberdeen City & Shire Tourism Awards and then representing the north east and winning Best Hotel Experience under 20 rooms at the Thistle Awards was an absolute highlight in our year.  It has been a fantastic morale boost for our hard-working team to be recognised in this way.  We have also been delighted with how much our win has increased our profile, with many new visitors telling us that they read about it in the news or saw it online.“

2022 winner and 2023 finalist Dan Brown, owner of Wild Discovery along with his wife Rachel said, “Winning the Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Award was not only an honour but it has been highly beneficial to our business. The validation that comes with such an accolade clearly reassures and encourages prospective clients to book with us and it has undoubtedly been responsible for a significant increase in our business turnover so far this year.”

Both businesses can demonstrate tangible results and enduring impact of awards’ recognition.

3. Driving Up Bookings

Recognition is a form of marketing and winning this award certainly puts businesses on the map. It shows that they are reputable, recognised and are working hard to offer their customers and clients more.

Dan Brown, owner of Wild Discovery, knows this firsthand. Winning the Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Award wasn't just a nice gesture as it had a real impact on bookings. It reassured potential clients and even had a positive effect on business turnover, as a result, the business has seen an increase in interest which has resulted in more bookings.

4. Industry Connections: The Web of Opportunity

Beyond the glitz and applause of awards ceremonies lies a vibrant network of opportunities. These events aren't just gatherings; they're gateways to a world of potential connections. Here's how industry ties work their magic:

Rub Shoulders with Fellow Winners

Imagine a room filled with fellow achievers, all at the top of their game. As you mingle and share stories, you're not just celebrating; you're forging connections. These fellow winners become more than just acquaintances; they're potential collaborators, sounding boards, and allies. Shared experiences create bonds that extend beyond the event.

Engage with Industry Leaders

Awards ceremonies attract industry leaders who have shaped the landscape. Take the opportunity to engage with them. A casual chat over dinner might lead to insights you won't find elsewhere.

Collaborations and Partnerships

Opportunities for collaboration extend beyond simple introductions. It's about joining forces on projects, forming partnerships, and fostering mutually beneficial relationships. Whether it's teaming up with a fellow winner for an event or receiving mentorship from an industry leader, these collaborations fuel growth.

Shared Wisdom

Industry connections aren't just about exchanging business cards; they're a well of collective wisdom. When challenges arise, tap into this pool of knowledge. Whether it's navigating regulations, devising marketing strategies, or overcoming supply chain hurdles, someone in your network has been there before. Learn from their experiences, both successes, and failures.

So, beyond the trophy and the applause, there's a whole network of benefits that come with being recognised by the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards. It's not just about winning; it's about the journey that can change your business, boost your credibility, and make a lasting impression. As you get ready to submit your entry, keep in mind that the impact of recognition lasts far beyond the moment of victory.