The Judging Process

Entries are evaluated by an independent, voluntary panel of judges comprised of business and community leaders. Your submission, including examples, stories and documents, should provide a robust and accurate depiction of your organization’s focus on character, culture, customers and community. Supporting documents and attachments can range from handbooks, internal documentation, or photos from events.

Application Criteria 1: Character

As CEO, President, Owner or Executive Director your leadership character sets the tone for your entire organization. As a leader, explain how you behave intentionally and communicate with your leadership team, employees, customers and stakeholders in a way that is consistent with your beliefs.

When completing the application, you will be asked to describe:

1. How you strive to live and lead with high character and intentionally seek feedback in order to make personal improvements.
2. How you empower your staff to carry out your organization’s commitment to building and maintaining ethical business practices.
3. Describe tools, activities or training that reinforce your staff’s commitment to character ethics as part of the organization’s normal business practices.

 

Application Criteria 2: Culture

Illustrate how your organization works toward a culture of trust through clarity of purpose, empowering employees, and opportunities for growth.

When completing the application, you will be asked to describe:

1. How you unite your team around your organization’s vision and mission statement.
2. How you empower employees to help shape the expectations and culture of your organization.
3. What practices your company uses that demonstrates leadership’s commitment to individual employees.

Application Criteria 3: Customers

Give examples of internal practices your organization uses to build better customer relationships.

When completing the application, you will be asked to describe:

1. How you empower your employees to proactively address issues experienced by customers.
2. How you go above and beyond to maintain transparency with your customers.
3. An instance where your commitment to honesty was a positive differentiator in a challenging customer interaction.

 

Application Criteria 4: Community

Display organizational programs, contributions and activities that return value to and support your community.

When completing the application, you will be asked to describe:

1. Programs or events that your organization has in place to actively engage with the community.
2. How employees are encouraged to and recognized for spending time in community service activities that your organization and employees value.
3. Contribution of funds or in-kind services to community programs consistent with the organization’s values.