Mala McAlpin There are countless benefits you can reap by entering business awards, from critical analysis of your business and nailing your branding to networking and exposure. But are they really worth it?
The Skin Clinic in Sydney’s Concord just took out a win at The Inner West Business Awards, and Belinda Merlino tells us what she thinks of the process – from the procedure itself to the effects it can have on your business.
Congrats on your recent win! Tell us about the award you took out, and what it means to you
Thank you so much. We entered and won the 2019 Outstanding Beauty Services Category at The Inner West (Sydney) Business Awards. For us it gives us validation that we are on the right path… as in order to be finalists we needed votes from the public and our clients, then to win we had to pass a mystery shopper test. We were up against some great Inner West salons and clinics so to receive the trophy was a thrill.
Was this your first time entering?
This was our second year entering, we were also finalists in the same category in 2018.
What kind of result did you see after your win?
What I saw and what I continue to see is a great outpouring of well wishes from clients, family and friends, the next day our clinic looked more like a florist with all the floral deliveries! Everyone was, and still is so genuinely happy for us. And we have seen a huge increase in new clients… some have said the win was what encouraged them to try us…so it’s been hugely beneficial business wise.
Any other benefits you found throughout the process?
A lot of our regular guests have said they have been telling a friend or family member about us for a while, and NOW when they refer them, they mention this award win. I suppose it gives some the reassurance they need to know we are good at what we do, and that they will be in good hands. Our clients love telling everyone that they attend an award winning clinic. It’s really sweet.
Do you believe all spa and clinic businesses can find value in entering business awards?
Definitely! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. It is also daunting, but I have enjoyed pushing myself outside of my comfort zone, and it has paid off. Being a finalist meant that my team and I could enjoy a night out together, and is a real bonding experience. The award itself was a huge boost for us as a business, and my therapists are so happy to be part of an award winning team. Writing these submissions is a great way to fully understand who you are as a business, what you represent and all that you have achieved. I would encourage everyone to give it a go.
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