COLIN MARR: Awards season is here – get involved if you’re proud of what you do

It’s awards season! No not that one – Oscars and BAFTAs were a few months ago. But we are about to enter business awards season in the Highlands.

It kicks off with the Highland Business Women Awards on August 24 and moves onto SCDI Highlands and Islands Awards on September 14 before reaching the most important one of all (I would say that, wouldn’t I?) the Highland Business Awards – organised by Inverness Chamber of Commerce – on September 29.

If you’re proud of your business I would encourage you to get involved.

But why do awards matter?

In Scotland we’re always warned not to boast too much or to become big-headed. But as a business it’s really important that we celebrate our successes. And what better way to tell the world of that success than an award from your peers?

It’s a morale boost for your staff and a great way to differentiate your business from the competition. And the accolade lasts for more than just one day. Lots of last year’s winners and finalists still have the logo on their website. My favourite example is Cru Holdings who won employer of the year. In a difficult market for recruitment that award must be a great comfort for job applicants.

So what are you waiting for? The awards are online now (you don’t even need to be a chamber member to enter). I look forward to reading your entries.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.