Why Award Submissions Matter

I am thrilled to be announced as a finalist in The Urban Developer Leader Awards (Real Estate category). It’s an incredible honour to be acknowledged for the impact and work you do and it reminded me just how important award submissions are in our industry.

Too often, agents shy away from entering awards because they think it’s “just about ego” or they’re “too busy.” But let me tell you — the process of putting your achievements forward is so much more than chasing a trophy.

Here’s why I believe every agent and agency should be taking awards seriously.

Recognition that builds trust

We can all talk about our results, but when an independent panel of judges recognises your work, that’s powerful. It’s third-party validation that tells your clients (and future clients): you’re not just good at talking about success, you’re delivering it.

Free visibility and exposure

Being named a finalist or winner gives you a platform. You can:

• Share the news with your database

• Announce it on your socials

• Use finalist/winner badges in your marketing materials

• Leverage the publicity generated by the award organisers themselves

• PR and stories

That visibility builds brand awareness in ways that traditional advertising can’t always achieve.

Standing out from the crowd

Let’s face it — real estate is competitive. There are professional agents in every marketplace. Awards give you the chance to showcase what sets you apart: your innovation, your systems, your client service, your results.

They allow you to articulate the unique value you bring to the table — and that’s exactly what clients are looking for.

Lifting team culture

Award submissions aren’t just about recognition from the outside. They’re also a chance to pause and celebrate what’s happening inside your business.

Every time I write an award submission, I’m reminded of just how much my team has achieved. It’s a boost of pride, motivation and morale - and that matters when you’re working in a high-performance environment.

Growth through reflection

I also believe the process of entering awards is just as valuable as the outcome. It forces you to reflect, document your achievements, and look critically at your numbers and your systems.

That kind of reflection leads to growth. It highlights what’s working, and it shines a light on where you can do better.

A legacy worth building

Over time, being consistently recognised as a finalist or winner builds a career legacy. It’s proof that you’ve delivered results year after year, not just in one great season.

That legacy strengthens your personal brand, attracts great people to your team, and creates opportunities that extend far beyond your current marketplace.

My encouragement to you

Being recognised as a finalist in The Urban Developer Leader Awards has been a proud moment for me and my team - but more than that, it’s a reminder of why these submissions matter.

So here’s my encouragement: take the time to put your achievements forward. Whether it’s The Urban Developer, the REIQ Awards, or the REA Excellence Awards (AREAs), start making submissions part of your business plan.

Because whether you win or not, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and credibility that will help you grow, scale and thrive in your career.

Sherrie xx