Why it’s important to enter nail competitions

With the Scratch Stars Awards 2019 opening for entry 1 February and Nailympia competitions on the horizon, industry veteran Sue Davies reveals why it’s important to enter nail competitions – and what it takes to win…

With a number of industry awards at our reach, is can be a challenge to figure out which ones to enter – and which are best suited to you.

Over the years, I have learnt that all entries are worthwhile, whether the awards events are local or national or whether you wish to enter an individual, salon or business. The most important thing to do is actually enter – as even writing the entry offers an opportunity to reflect, grow and develop.

Many of us get so wrapped up in servicing our clients and keeping the bills paid that we forget that we need to recognise our own achievements, be it in the world of business or in the world of skill development. As the Scratch Stars Awards slogan reveals, ‘stand up and be recognised!’

Be realistic in your expectations of what you will gain from your awards entry. Check how much coverage the organiser gives finalists and winners.

Being a finalist is a massive achievement and an opportunity to promote your success to clients, the local press and social media. This marketing window is open briefly and is, for me, one of the biggest promotion opportunities you get.

Award schemes will ask questions that make you consider how you work, how you service your clients and where your customer service levels stand, so make sure you are prepared to scrutinise yourself and your business. The Scratch Stars Awards, for example, receives hundreds of entries and you need to make sure you stand out. Where are your strengths and where can you improve? Think your entry through and check out previous winners. What did they do? What were their nails like? What is their website like? Do they have great social media? If you want to compete with the highest-level salons or techs nationally you may need to review your business.

Check the key awards dates, too, as if you make it to the finals you may be required to compete on certain dates or attend further judging. There is a process involved for each!

Read the entry form fully, decide on the category or categories you wish to enter, read the questions and be honest and thorough.

Play to your strengths and tell your clients about your entry to create a buzz about the business. Involve them and ask them for testimonials; whether you use them in the awards entry or not, it helps remind them why they se your services and could raise some great points to aid your entry or help your business.

If you are entering skill-based categories, make sure you’re ahead of the game. When you know the awards entry date, start building a portfolio of nail images. Practice your polish framing and photo angles to get the best photos for your submission.

Having been on both sides of the awards process, I have learnt that it is important to keep your answers to the point.

Judges have limited time to read all finalists’ entries so keep what is relevant and decide on a clear, concise entry. What would you want to read?

Entering is only the beginning of the process. A wait follows – as well as plenty of email refreshing and phone checking when finalists are revealed! Only one person or team can win each category – so remember that being a finalist is a win in itself and if you can receive feedback on your entry, take it. It will offer insight on where you can update, improve or review. Just enter!

Sue Davies is owner of Gorgeous Emporium and founder of Nabuno.

Enter the Scratch Stars Awards 2019 by 17 March by clicking here.