Why Nominations Matter

Behind almost every award winner is someone who took the time to write a strong nomination. Many deserving individuals go unrecognized simply because no one nominated them — or because the nomination wasn't compelling enough to stand out. Learning how to write an effective nomination is a skill that benefits your colleagues, mentors, and communities.

Step 1: Choose the Right Award

Before writing a word, confirm that the person you want to nominate genuinely fits the award's purpose and eligibility criteria. Ask yourself:

  • Does the nominee's work clearly align with what this award recognizes?
  • Are they eligible based on career stage, geography, or field?
  • Is this award credible and respected in their field?
  • Has enough time passed since previous recognition (if there are rules about repeat winners)?

A thoughtful match between nominee and award is the foundation of a successful nomination.

Step 2: Gather Your Evidence

Strong nominations are built on specific, verifiable evidence — not vague praise. Collect the following before you begin writing:

  • Concrete examples of the nominee's achievements and their measurable impact
  • Testimonials or quotes from colleagues, clients, or direct reports
  • Publications, projects, awards, or media coverage
  • Data where available: number of people affected, scope of projects, outcomes delivered
  • The nominee's biography or CV (with their permission)

Step 3: Understand the Selection Criteria

Every award has stated criteria. Read them carefully and structure your nomination around them explicitly. If the award values innovation, leadership, and community impact, ensure your nomination addresses each of those dimensions with evidence. Selection committees scan nominations for alignment with criteria — make their job easy.

Step 4: Write a Compelling Narrative

A nomination is not a résumé. It's a story that makes the case for why this individual deserves recognition above all others. Structure your narrative as follows:

  1. Opening hook: Begin with a specific moment, achievement, or quality that captures the nominee's exceptional nature.
  2. Context: Briefly describe who the nominee is and their field, so reviewers unfamiliar with their work can orient themselves.
  3. Evidence of excellence: Walk through their key achievements with concrete detail. Show don't just tell.
  4. Impact: Who or what has changed because of this person's work? Scale and lasting effect strengthen any nomination.
  5. Fit for this award: Explicitly connect the nominee to the award's mission and past recipients where appropriate.
  6. Closing statement: A clear, confident summary of why this person is the right choice.

Step 5: Get Supporting Letters

Many awards ask for letters of support from additional nominators. Recruit recommenders who:

  • Know the nominee's work firsthand and can speak specifically
  • Represent different professional perspectives (peer, supervisor, collaborator, beneficiary)
  • Are credible and respected in the relevant field

Brief your recommenders on the award criteria and provide them with key points to address — a well-coordinated package of letters is far more persuasive than disconnected ones.

Step 6: Review and Submit

Before submitting, check your nomination against this list:

  • ✅ Every selection criterion is addressed with evidence
  • ✅ The narrative is specific — no vague praise like "she is a true leader"
  • ✅ Word count and format comply with submission guidelines
  • ✅ Spelling, grammar, and formatting are polished
  • ✅ Submission deadline is met (early is better)

A Final Note on Disclosure

Always tell the person you're nominating — unless the award is explicitly confidential until announcement. Nominees may need to provide additional materials, and a surprise nomination can sometimes create awkward situations. Most people are genuinely honored simply to be nominated, regardless of the outcome.