Top tips for Tweed Business Awards

THE Tweed Chamber of Commerce is encouraging businesses to submit their entries for the Tweed Business Awards, which will close on June 12.

Chamber board member and events facilitator for the last two business awards, Julie West, said it was a great opportunity for a business to conduct a 360-degree review.

“It’s good to review the business, the achievements, and their team’s performance,” West said.

“Reflecting on their past 12 months invariably helps them to look at goals achieved and set goals for the coming year.”

West believes the award has many benefits beyond the commercial kudos.

“It’s all about engagement with the community and fellow business owners,” she said.

“It helps give a lot more brand recognition, and winners or highly commended businesses get a leg up for things like applying for a funding grant or to add to their CV.

“It’s a good thing to promote your business and put it to your advantage.”

Entries can be challenging, and the chamber supports businesses in preparing their submissions.

“Be clear with your responses and do some engaging storytelling,” West said.

“It’s not just increasing the customer base by 20 per cent; tell the story that humanises and illustrates your achievements.

“Showcase your growth, leadership skills, and community involvement.”

West’s overall advice is proofreading, avoiding common errors, and eschewing AI-generated content.

“Don’t rely on AI. Use it to assist you or as a thought starter, but don’t use generated content to answer questions,” she said.

“Also, use all the word count. Take the space available; it’s a valuable way to tell your story.”

Two of the lightest entry categories at the time of print are Excellence in International Trade and the new Excellence in Sustainable Tourism category.

“We have amazing craft exporters, and sometimes people don’t even realise they are a sustainable business; it’s not always front of mind with awards,” she said.

“There are so many established and startup businesses in our region that are sustainable, so we look forward to exciting entries.”

Entries close on June 12. The finalists will be announced on July 7, and a Gala Awards Presentation Event will be held at Seagulls on August 8.

For information, visit tweedbusinessawards.org