BEST WEBSITE DESIGN AGENCY
Winner of the Southern Enterprise Awards.
We Get Digital is one of the 2024 winners of the SME Southern Enterprise Awards.
So proud of this best website design agency award with this. We thought it might be a bit of a con at first as we had won it back in 2019 as well! Keeping that quality going, clearly!
So, this has led us to think… “do awards really matter?”
The Importance of Winning Awards: Do Clients Really Care?
Awards in the business world are often seen as the ultimate stamp of approval—a shiny badge that screams “We’re the best!” But how important are they, really? And, more crucially, do clients take them seriously when deciding whether to work with you?
Let’s delve into the true value of awards and explore whether they’re a game-changer for your business or just a nice-to-have accolade.
1. The Credibility Factor
Winning an award can significantly boost your company’s credibility. It’s a third-party endorsement that validates your expertise, innovation, or commitment to excellence. Awards act as a seal of approval from industry experts, showing that your business stands out in a competitive market.
From a client’s perspective, this can be reassuring. Awards are often perceived as evidence that you know your stuff. However, it’s worth noting that not all awards hold equal weight.
Prestigious, industry-specific awards carry more influence than generic, pay-to-enter accolades. Clients are savvy enough to spot the difference.
2. Differentiation in a Crowded Market
In highly saturated markets, standing out is no easy feat. Awards can help you cut through the noise by showcasing your unique strengths. If two companies offer similar services at a comparable price, an award could tip the scales in your favour.
That said, awards alone won’t win over clients. They’re often the cherry on top, not the cake itself. Potential customers will still scrutinise your testimonials, case studies, and overall reputation.
3. Awards as a Marketing Tool
Winning an award is a golden opportunity for PR and marketing. Sharing the news on your website, social media, and newsletters can generate buzz and attract new leads. It’s an easy conversation starter and a way to keep your brand top of mind.
But here’s the catch: if you overdo it, it can come across as bragging. Clients care about what you can do for them, not how many trophies you’ve collected. The key is to use awards as part of a broader strategy, complementing other proof points like customer reviews and measurable results.
4. Do Clients Really Care?
The million-pound question! The answer largely depends on your target audience:
Corporate Clients: Larger businesses may view awards as a sign of stability and professionalism. They often want to work with the “best in the business,” and awards can influence their decision-making.
Small Business Owners or Individuals: These clients are usually more focused on tangible outcomes than accolades. They’re more likely to ask, “Can you solve my problem?” than “How many awards have you won?”
For most clients, awards might serve as a reassuring “extra,” but they’re rarely the deciding factor. A stellar track record, personalised service, and value for money often carry far more weight.
5. When Awards Don’t Matter
Let’s not ignore the flip side: not having awards doesn’t mean your business is any less capable. Many thriving businesses have never entered—or even considered—award competitions. For some industries or niches, client testimonials and referrals can be far more compelling than a trophy on a shelf.
Final Thoughts on Awards
Awards can be valuable for boosting credibility, differentiating your business, and enhancing your marketing efforts. They may impress some clients, particularly in industries where accolades are the norm. However, the majority of clients care more about the tangible results you deliver than the awards you’ve won.
Ultimately, awards are a tool, not a necessity. If you’re considering entering competitions, ensure the time and effort align with your broader business goals. And if you don’t win, don’t sweat it. Focus on building strong client relationships and delivering exceptional work—because at the end of the day, that’s what truly wins hearts (and business).
Funnily enough we have build We Get Digital over the past 20 years or so without any awards whatsoever. We actually didn’t enter this one but were told we had won it. Personally, I think they are good but, as we said earlier earlier, it so depends on the voting system and whether it is truly earned or just an opportunity for a magazine to make some extra income with advertising from winners.
What’s your take on awards? Have they made a difference in your business? Let us know in the comments!
