Why You Should Nominate Yourself (or a Friend) for an Award

As a mentor to women entrepreneurs, I often hear this hesitation: "I don't know if I'm ready for an award." Or worse, "I feel weird nominating myself."

Let me stop you right there. If you’re waiting for someone to notice your hard work and hand you an award, you might be waiting forever. Women entrepreneurs, in particular, tend to underestimate their achievements while juggling business, family, and community responsibilities. It’s time to shift that mindset—because nominating yourself for an award isn’t about ego; it’s about opportunity.

Why It Matters

Awards aren’t just shiny trophies or certificates on a wall. They’re powerful tools that can elevate your business, open doors, and position you as a leader in your industry. Here’s why you should put yourself (or a deserving friend) forward:

1. You Deserve to Be Seen. As women entrepreneurs, we often work behind the scenes, pouring our energy into our businesses, customers, and communities. Awards provide a platform to showcase that dedication, elevate you, your business and make sure your work gets the visibility it deserves. Recognition can lead to more clients, media exposure, and partnerships—things that directly impact your success.

2. Credibility That Sets You Apart. An award is a stamp of approval from industry leaders, and it carries weight. It tells potential clients and investors that you’re not just another business—they should trust you because you’re a recognized expert in your field. That level of credibility can take years to build, but an award can accelerate that process.

3. Unmatched Networking Opportunities. Award ceremonies and finalist events bring together high-achieving entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders. Imagine sitting in a room filled with people who can help grow your business, connect you with new opportunities, or even become your next mentor. That’s the power of putting yourself in the right circles.

4. It’s a Business Booster. Winning (or even being nominated) can attract new clients and business opportunities. People want to work with the best, and an award signals that you’re among them. Investors and partners also take notice—recognition can be the credibility boost they need to take your business seriously.

5. You Inspire Others. Whether you realize it or not, other women are watching you—aspiring entrepreneurs, young professionals, even your own team members. When you step forward and own your achievements, you show others what’s possible. You become a role model, paving the way for the next generation of women in business.

6. Personal Growth & Reflection. The nomination process itself is an eye-opener. It forces you to take stock of your journey—your wins, your challenges, and your impact. Many women don’t pause long enough to appreciate how far they’ve come. This is your chance to celebrate your progress and identify new goals for the future.

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How to Put Your Best Foot Forward

If you’re convinced (and I hope you are), here are a few tips to make your nomination stand out:

• Pick the Right Awards: Choose ones that align with your business and values.
• Tell Your Story Well: Clearly communicate your achievements, your impact, and what makes you unique.
• Be Bold: Don’t downplay your success—own it! Highlight your leadership, growth, and contributions.

Most importantly, don’t wait for permission. If you’ve been working hard, making an impact, and growing as a business leader, you deserve recognition. And if you know another woman entrepreneur who’s doing amazing things? Nominate her too.

Let’s make sure more women take their place in the spotlight where they belong. 

Cindy Cohen RN, BS BA 

Founder, President 
C2 Your Health Women's Initiative Inc. 
Women Move Forward Mentoring Community 

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