How to prepare for facing the judges

Congratulations, you’re a Finalist! Now it’s time to prepare to face the judges. Here are some tips to that will help you focus and structure your time with them.

1) Tell a story

It’s your turn to bring your story to life. Structure your story to explain what the opportunities were, what you put in place, how you went about it and what were the results.

2) Share the results

One of the most important aspects of your nomination is what you achieved. Share the impact your project or team has had in numbers; what were the metrics before and where do they stand now? And explain the qualitative difference you’ve made. Consider the customer and employee experience, as well as the impact on the business.

3) Stay focused

Your presentation to the judges is for one category, so make sure you focus on that category. This is especially hard when you have entered for several awards. Different judges will judge different categories, so in that moment tell the story that relates to that award.

4) Practice timings

When people get nervous there is a tendency to waffle. So, practice your presentation and practice your timings. The judges will ask you to stop if you go over the allocated time. You will have time for questions as this is a great opportunity for the judges to make sure they have all the information they need to assess your nomination.

5) Careful use of video

If you’ve created a video during the project, you might be inclined to show it – but consider whether it adds value to the narrative. Videos take time to set up and play, time that may be better spent telling more of your story.

6) Join the online platform early and practice

You will agree whichever online platform you are going to use with your lead judge well in advance. Ensure you are familiar with it, and practice with your team to make sure you can swap presenters, show your slides, play video if need be, and all join in for the Q&A. On the day we suggest you login at least 30 minutes before your allocated time to make sure everyone is properly connected.

7) Do a virtual tour

If your category is a Showcase presentation, then the judges will want to see your operation. If you decide to do a pre-recorded video tour of your facility, think carefully about what you would like to show the judges and try to include a wide range of people and functions. You don’t need to film the video all at once so you can show your operation at different times of the day and week.

8) Enjoy it!

This is an amazing experience. Show the judges how passionate you are about the team or project, why you have entered and what you are celebrating.

We wish you the best of luck with your presentation. You deserve to be there, so enjoy every minute.