CONTINUOUS INNOVATION
Stamp of excellence
Alagan Mahalingam
Q: How should award winning organisations maintain the high standards that led to their recognition?
A: Recognition in the form of an award testifies that you are doing something right and you’ve been recognised for your great work. To maintain this momentum, it’s important to keep innovating and setting new benchmarks for your work.
The world keeps changing and businesses that continue to evolve are the ones that continue to succeed. So building a culture that promotes continuous innovation and growth will ensure that your business is successful in the long term.
Q: ‘There are awards and awards,’ so to say. How would you differentiate the awards that corporates win – meaning, what are the keys to such awards being authentic and worthy of the recognition they carry?
A: When it comes to corporate awards, not all carry the same weight; identifying the authentic awards involves considering a few key factors.
Firstly, the clarity of an award’s criteria is important to ensure that participants understand the basis of recognition, and the track record and reputation of the organisation presenting it. Established and respected institutions contribute significantly to the legitimacy of the recognition.
The global recognition and industry standards associated with an award contribute to its overall authenticity. If an award is acknowledged internationally and adheres to established industry benchmarks, this underscores its significance and credibility.
Q: How can companies that win awards leverage the admiration that follows?
A: When you win awards, it puts you in the spotlight. Use this to strengthen the bonds with the people who matter most to your business.
Make sure you’re talking about these awards in a way that feels real and relevant – like sharing the news in a town hall meeting, publishing a press release or making an announcement on social media.
It’s not all about publicity but rather, showing your customers, team and partners that their trust in you is well placed.
You should tell the stories behind the awards – the hard work, the challenges and how you came through. It’s these stories that humanise your brand and make stakeholders feel like they’re a part of the success.
Q: And how would you compare awards bestowed by media and awarding institutions overseas with those that originate from local sources?
A: When it comes to international awards, you compete with global businesses on a larger scale and some are the best in their field. It’s challenging but very impactful.
Local awards are closer to home. They mean you’re making an impact where you live and work, and that’s important to reflect your direct influence on the community and local economy.
International awards can carry a different kind of prestige. The work you’re doing is not simply resonating locally but also being recognised on the global stage. It means that your reach extends beyond borders, which can boost your team, and elevate its standing in the eyes of global partners and customers.
An international award positions not only the company but also Sri Lanka on the map.
Q: Does the recognition that comes from awards and accolades lead to increased sales or business?
A: Awards can serve as a stamp of excellence and reliability that can sway potential customers when they’re deciding between similar products or services. Awards become a part of the brand’s story – a narrative that can be great in marketing campaigns, attracting attention and engaging customers.
International awards can signal to potential global clients that the company’s offering is of a high standard, easing their entry into new markets. This validation is not only outward facing but also uplifts employee morale and drives productivity, which in turn can contribute to improved business performance.
In a landscape where trust equates with value, awards can translate into tangible commercial success.
