Winning, or even being named a finalist, for an industry award is more than a pat on the back. It’s proof that your firm is doing something exceptional. In an industry built on trust, awards act as powerful third-party validation, boosting credibility with clients, prospects, and recruits alike.
But here’s the thing: recognition only matters if people know about it. Too many firms post once on LinkedIn and move on. The real opportunity lies in how you amplify the moment — across channels, over time, and with intention.
Treat Every Win Like a Media Moment
An award win is one of the most powerful forms of third-party validation—proof that others see the value in what you’re building. That kind of recognition deserves thoughtful, multi-channel visibility, much like how you’d amplify a major media feature:
- Feature it prominently on your website. A banner or callout helps visitors — from clients to prospects to potential recruits — see your recognition right away.
- Include it in your next email or newsletter. A short note about why the recognition matters adds context and depth.
- Share it across your social channels. Post from both firm and leadership accounts, tagging the award organization and the team members who made it possible.
- Issue a press release for firmwide or high-profile wins. It’s excellent for SEO and reinforces credibility when people search your firm online.
Big or small, a win is an opportunity to strengthen your story and showcase the impact of your work.
Make It a Team Win
Recognition reinforces a culture of shared success and forward momentum. Share the announcement internally before it hits social, encourage your team to repost and make it a proud moment for everyone.
Finalist Status Counts, Too
Being named a finalist is still a big deal—it’s a signal that your work is being noticed and respected by the industry. It’s also an opportunity to build momentum and stay top of mind with clients, prospects, and partners.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Share the recognition with humility and pride. Post across your channels from both firm and leadership accounts. Use language like “We’re honored to be named a finalist for…” to keep the tone authentic and aspirational.
- Keep the visibility going. Add the recognition to team bios and email signatures to show consistency and credibility over time.
- Showcase it thoughtfully. Include the finalist logo (with proper licensing) on your website’s newsroom or “Recognition” section, rather than a homepage banner.
- Integrate it into your narrative. Mention the finalist honor in sales decks, recruiting materials, and client updates as an example of your ongoing leadership and innovation.
- If it’s a high-profile award, share it more broadly. Consider a brief press release or including it in an “awards roundup” to highlight multiple recognitions together—it’s a smart way to signal momentum without overstating.
- Always express gratitude. Thank the award organization and your team for the recognition. It reinforces humility and teamwork, which resonate more deeply than self-congratulation.
Extend the Life of the Win
Awards aren’t one-day news. Keep the momentum going:
- Resurface it 30, 60, and 90 days later with a new spin — for example, how your team continues to innovate in that area.
- Incorporate it into client conversations and recruiting materials.
- Update bios and profiles to include the recognition — “2025 [Award Name] Finalist” or “Named to [Publication’s] Top Firms List.”
Promote Smart — Stay Compliant
Compliance and licensing matter. If you want to use the award logo or mark, purchase the proper media kit or licensing rights from the awarding organization. Using unlicensed assets can lead to compliance issues or copyright trouble.