7 Smart Ways to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Consumer Choice Award
Winning a Consumer Choice Award is a powerful way to set your business apart. It tells customers that your company is trusted, respected, and recognized for delivering exceptional value. It is not just a plaque for the wall; it is a stamp of approval from the people who matter most: your customers.
As our 2026 Fall Launch approaches, many businesses are already thinking about how to put themselves in the best possible position to be recognized and ultimately chosen as a winner. The truth is, earning this recognition is not just about having a great product or service. It is about making sure your excellence is visible, your reputation is strong, and your brand is top of mind when people think about the best in your category.
If you want to increase your chances of being selected, here are seven smart strategies you can start implementing now.
1. Strengthen Your Social Media Presence
Social media is not just for casual updates; it is one of the most important ways to build awareness and loyalty. An active, engaging presence ensures your business is seen and remembered. Share a variety of content: behind-the-scenes glimpses of your team, customer testimonials, seasonal promotions, and tips relevant to your industry. Use consistent branding across platforms and engage with followers by responding to comments and messages promptly. A strong social presence not only keeps your current customers engaged but also helps new ones discover your business.
2. Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is often the first thing people see when searching for your services online. Make sure it is complete, accurate, and visually appealing. Include up-to-date contact information, business hours, service descriptions, and high-quality photos. Use the “Posts” feature to share updates, events, and promotions. Respond to customer questions promptly and thank reviewers for their feedback. A polished, active Google profile improves your local search visibility and builds trust before customers even visit your website.
3. Maintain a Fully Functional Website
You must have a working, reliable website that loads quickly, displays correctly on mobile and desktop, and contains no broken links or expired pages. Test your site regularly to ensure all forms, menus, and buttons work properly. Remove outdated promotions, correct old information, and make sure all links lead to active, relevant pages. A professional, fully functional website signals credibility and helps customers feel confident choosing your business.
4. Gather and Showcase Customer Reviews
Online reviews carry significant weight in shaping public perception. Encourage happy customers to share their experiences on Google, Facebook, and other relevant platforms. Make it easy by providing direct links or sending follow-up emails after a purchase or service. Respond to all reviews, thank customers for positive feedback, and address any concerns professionally. Display select testimonials on your website and social channels to build credibility and show potential customers the value you provide.
5. Build Credibility with Media and Online Features
Being featured in blogs, online publications, or local news outlets can strengthen your reputation and expand your reach. Share your expertise, community involvement, or business milestones with journalists, industry writers, and community websites. Positive coverage from credible sources acts as a third-party endorsement, building trust with potential customers. Keep track of these mentions so you can highlight them on your website, in marketing materials, and on social media.
6. Enhance Your SEO with Quality Content and Hyperlinks
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps your business get discovered when customers search online. Create content that uses relevant keywords naturally and provides genuine value to your audience. Link between your own website pages to guide visitors and help search engines understand your site’s structure. Build external links by collaborating with credible businesses, guest posting on relevant sites, or being featured in local media. The more easily customers can find you online, the more likely they are to choose your business.
7. Highlight Your Other Accolades
If you have won other awards, earned certifications, or been featured in reputable publications, make sure people know about it. Display badges on your website, mention them in your social media bios, and include them in marketing materials. This track record of recognition builds confidence in your quality and reliability. It shows customers that your excellence is not a one-time achievement, but a consistent standard.
The Bottom Line
Winning a Consumer Choice Award is not about luck; it is about consistently delivering quality, building trust, and making sure customers know and remember you. By focusing on these seven strategies, you will strengthen your brand presence, improve your reputation, and create the kind of customer loyalty that leads to being recognized and chosen based on consumer research.
The 2026 Fall Launch will be here before you know it. Start implementing these steps today so that when the spotlight turns to your industry, your business is ready to shine.
Sumi Saleh, Communications Manager – Consumer Choice Award
