Welcome to a special solo episode of the That's Audacious Podcast! Lauren Clemett tackles one of the most frequently asked questions she receives as a professional award writer: "Am I ready? Have I done enough to enter awards?" Lauren debunks common myths, challenges self-limiting beliefs, and instils the confidence needed to pursue recognition for your hard work and impact.
Myth #1: You Need Stellar Financials or Massive Growth
Many believe that awards are only for businesses with sky-high revenue or exponential growth. Lauren clarifies that this is largely a myth. Most awards, almost 90% of them, don't even ask for your financials. Instead, they focus on:
Therefore, you don't need a massive income jump to be award-worthy.
Myth #2: You're Too Small, Too New, or Too Unknown
Many believe that awards are only for businesses with sky-high revenue or exponential growth. Lauren clarifies that this is largely a myth.Awards are for businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises.
The key is finding the right categories. Lauren highlights a golden window for startups, with categories specifically designed for new ventures (often within 12-24 months of operation), even those pre-profit or without external funding.
Missing this window means losing eligibility for these unique opportunities, so if you're a startup, now is the time to seize it.
Most awards, almost 90% of them, don't even ask for your financials. Instead, they focus on:
Myth #3: Imposter Syndrome (The "Itty Bitty Shitty Committee") is Holding You Back
This is a common internal battle. Many entrepreneurs feel insecure, believing their business isn't "perfect," optimised, or free of mistakes. This mindset often focuses on external validation and the fear of judgment. However, Lauren encourages a shift in perspective: "Nothing ever really is perfect."
By pausing to reflect on your journey – your challenges, your original motivations, and your achievements – you can gain a profound sense of self-recognition. Even failures are part of your success story. You're never too small, too new, or too late to enter awards. There are countless categories for various business types, products, services, and impact makers, regardless of whether you have a physical product or a well-established business model
Inspiring Case Studies: Awards at Every Stage
To illustrate her points, Lauren shares three compelling examples:
These stories underscore that you don't need decades of history or massive revenue to be award worthy. Your impact, your innovation, and your unique story are more than enough.
Are You Awards Ready? Take the Quiz!
Ultimately, being awards ready comes down to:
Don't let self-doubt or outdated myths hold back your brilliance. Lauren encourages listeners to find out just how awards ready they are right now by taking the free Are You Awards Ready? Quiz.
This quick quiz culminates in a personalised guide that identifies your current readiness level (gold, silver, or bronze) and offers tailored advice for your next steps, whether you're a first-time entrant or looking to elevate previous wins.
Take the quiz, embrace your journey, and be bold, brave, and audacious!
