WHY AWARDS ARE IMPORTANT

We all experience many firsts in life… a first car, first pet, first home, and, of course, first love. But after a certain age, the firsts become replaced with a different number (coughs nervously).  Despite running my own business confidently for many years, I have never applied for an award (it’s just not my thing…). But last year, I finally decided to enter an award.  So, what made me enter? 

Well, firstly because the Woman Who Achieves Awards are REAL awards, based on merit (no votes or popularity contests here!).  These awards are all about celebrating the achievements of women in business.  

Secondly, entering awards is important for visibility.  As a personal branding photographer, I’m all about helping my clients get visible so this very much resonated with me and I need to practice what I preach!

And guess what?… Much to my utter astonishment, I won!  This was my first award in business – Women Who Achieves Solopreneur Award 2023.

Entering this award really stopped me in my tracks and forced me to reflect on why I take photos, my goals and achievements over the years.  I was thrilled to be selected as a finalist and I was completely blown away during the awards lunch by the inspirational women who attended.  Yes, applying and winning this award was a first, but perhaps (and I hope) not my last. Hearing my name called out as a WINNER made me quite emotional. It’s always nice to be recognised for all your hard work, but having a room full of women you hold in such high regard cheering and applauding your success took my breath away. 

So, if you’re thinking of entering an award, my advice is simple. Stop holding yourself back and JUST DO IT!

If you need a little convincing, here are the benefits I’ve had the pleasure of noticing since bringing my award home. 

INSPIRING OTHERS

Women aren’t used to singing their own praises and often play down their strengths.  I think so many of us are happy to sit in the background, believing the limelight is for others.  

But it’s so important to step out of our comfort zone and celebrate our achievements.  Did you know that 90% of girls feel they have higher personal and career aspirations after following inspirational women on social media [source: #ThisLittleGirlIsMe]

I have a 15 year old daughter and I want to inspire her and her peers.  So, be brave, step out of your comfort zone, celebrate your achievements and let’s inspire others!

CONFIDENCE & MOTIVATION

I believe in the quality of the photos I deliver to my customers and the overall experience I offer.  However, this award has given me a real confidence boost. Knowing that the judges selected me as a winner is confirmation that I provide something worthwhile that makes a difference.  Then, having seen that all my hard work has paid off in winning this award, I feel a renewed motivation to continue taking vibrant photos which help my clients gain visibility and confidence.  So look out for lots more magnetic photo shoots on your newsfeeds very soon!

NETWORKING

Even if you don’t win, entering and attending the awards allows you to meet others in the business.  Who knows where these new connections may lead – networking is a great way to generate new business, meet potential clients or discover suppliers. 

I have certainly added some new names to my LinkedIn connections, and I’m excited to watch these inspirational women continue their business adventures – I’m sure they’ll continue to inspire me for many years. 

BOOST YOUR VISIBILITY

This modern world is full of connections, advertising, trends and competition; standing out from the crowd isn’t easy. However, I’ve certainly benefited hugely from this event’s exposure. BBC Hereford & Worcester Radio asked me to talk about the award on air.

And guess what?  I’m now going to be a keynote speaker at the Woman Who Awards Finalist Lunch next month!  How amazing is that?

So, if you’re thinking of entering an award, what are you waiting for?

If you would like to know more about my photography, please explore my website, or reach out to me at michelle@michellemorris.co.uk. If you would like to regularly receive my newsletters and blogs please join my VIP list.

WHO AM I? 

I have over 15 years experience as a professional photographer. 

Photography runs in my blood, as my mother too was a photographer.  She was one of the first French female photographers on a film set.  She bought me my first camera when I was 18 and I’ve been taking photos ever since.

Click here if you’d like to learn more about me and why I became a photographer.  

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