NEWS10 July 2012

‘Prospective clients have said the awards were important to them’

FreshMinds Research won Best Place to Work in the 2011 Research Awards. Marketing manager Sam Holmes explains what winning the award has meant for the company.

Here, marketing manager Sam Holmes explains what winning the award has meant for the company.

Why did you decide to enter the 2011 Research Awards?
We decided to enter the ‘Best Place to Work’ category as we knew we had a strong case from winning other cultural awards, including one from the Sunday Times, and we’d developed some strong culture initiatives during the year that would make good supporting evidence. Also, the Research Awards are viewed as prestigious in our industry and we knew from previous wins that they are powerful reputation-enhancers.

How did it feel to win your category?
The FreshMinds culture provides a sense of belonging and common purpose, is highly valued by our people, and is also very motivating. So we felt proud to win.

What has winning meant for your staff?
The distinctive FreshMinds culture is an important factor in attracting and retaining staff, so the ‘Best Place to Work’ award gives an independent verification of our industry-leading position. For the team, it’s a validation of the benefits of being a FreshMinder, and encourages us to continue to innovate cultural initiatives.

How has winning helped you in your dealings with your existing clients?
Clients know the benefits of having highly engaged and motivated people working with them to answer their business and brand questions, and the ‘Best Place to Work’ award is further confirmation of our commitment to excellence.

How has winning helped you with your new business development activities?
Prospective clients have mentioned that our awards were important to them during the consideration process. Specifically for ‘Best Place to Work’, this award is helpful in the new business process as a positive work culture is widely recognised as a driver of excellence.

Any tips for would-be entrants on crafting an award-winning entry?
Provide detail about cultural initiatives and testimonials from your people, wrapped up in the story of your brand so far and the journey you’re on.