We teased it a couple of weeks ago, but today is the day when we can officially say that the entry process for 2023's Dealer of the Year competition is well and truly . . . OPEN!
I hope you have been giving some thought as to which category or categories you and your team members should be in the running for this year. Up for grabs are our core machinery specialism awards for businesses (Farm, Garden, Professional Turfcare, Forestry, ATV/Quad - plus a New Initiative prize). Alongside these are several special categories for outstanding individuals within the dealership (Leadership, Star and New Technician).
The organising team would be delighted if more dealer readers than ever chose to enter themselves for the competition this year. The process is simple and gives everyone an equal chance to shine - so why not get involved?!
As well as dealers putting themselves forward, we're also looking for nominations to come in from third parties on behalf of dealerships and individuals who they know deserve recognition. So come on manufacturers and suppliers, get in touch to tell us who always goes above and beyond for your brand.
I think it's worth reiterating just how valuable it can be, to be presented with an award that reflects your standing in the field in which you specialise.
Firstly, there's the obvious boost to morale and the feeling of immense pride that gaining affirmation from industry peers and colleagues brings. In our working lives it isn't often that we get those public pats-on-the-back that lets everyone know we're on the right track. So when those opportunities do present themselves, grabbing them with both hands surely makes sense?
There are other messages that are conveyed by being able to hang a certificate up on the wall of your premises though. When customers see that your business has been recognised by the wider industry for example, it should instill a confidence in the quality of your products and services.
Another would be that gaining an industry award sets you apart from the crowd. It signals that your dealership is a cut above and has been acknowledged for the excellence it offers. With a few, might we say less-than-scrupulous, companies out there on the internet, letting everyone know you are legit and have been recognised as such, can only be a good thing.
Other reasons for entering would include that the marketing and PR opportunities coming from winning are gold plated; competing for an industry award such as these encourages self-assessment and continuous improvement within the business; and simply being in the running at the ceremony on the night, is a fantastic networking opportunity to put your dealership out there and in the forefront of industry conversations.
Emphasising the prestige of the awards, is the exceptional support they have gained this year from some of the absolute top manufacturer names in the sector, who have chosen to sponsor the categories. There's no clearer indication of the high-regard that the awards are held in by your suppliers, than their association with the competition.
So do make this edition the one where your dealership turns the spotlight on all the great work you've undertaken across the past twelve months. The starting point to begin your journey can be found here today. Make sure you have a thorough read through of the explanations of all the categories you want to enter first, so you know exactly what the organisers want to receive from you and what the judging panel want to hear.
I think what works well is trying your best to convey a succinct story, that encapsulates what your business and your colleagues are all about. Numbers and pie-charts can say so much, but they can't really reflect the people who are at the heart of every great dealership around the country. It's the efforts of these individuals that Service Dealer looks to celebrate.
It is always a genuine pleasure each year, when I'm privy to the accounts of the innovative, entrepreneurial and inspiring work that our readers are achieving across the network. I look forward to once again having my already high expectations, exceeded!
Get entering!
