Quick Summary
Winning an award is nice. Knowing what to do after is where the real value lives. This post breaks down how using awards to grow your firm goes far beyond adding a logo to your website. Through a conversation with Heather Dubbeldam of Dubbeldam Architects, we explore how awards can build international credibility, support business development, and strengthen proposals and RFPs. From third-party storytelling to long-term market expansion, this is a practical look at turning recognition into real momentum.
→ Enjoyed reading this? Join the email newsletter.
One summer on São Miguel Island, where my family is from, I went on a hike.
Alone.
I had a map, researched the trail, and felt prepared. What could go wrong?
The next day, I did a different hike with my cousins. My cousin Pedro played “tour guide” as he was the most familiar with the terrain.
On the solo hike, I got lost a few times. Every crack in the forest made me think it was a bear (there are no bears on the island). And honestly, it felt lonely.
The hike with my cousins was, on paper, harder. Steeper hills and more kilometres. But the laughing, singing and conversation made it far more memorable. I remember thinking that even if we didn’t make it to the top, I’d be okay. The journey itself was so much fun.
The difference wasn’t the trail. It was the people.
The same is true in business.
Don’t Do It Alone
Marketing and growing a business are hard.
You probably can’t do it alone.
Marketing pushes you to put yourself out there, spend time and money before you know the outcome, and sit with uncertainty.
Yes, the right systems, strategy, and discipline matter. But it’s much easier and more meaningful when you don’t do it alone.
Over the years, I’ve noticed three kinds of support that have helped me do hard things:
- The accountability partner, for consistency. Pick someone serious about growth. Meet weekly or biweekly. (I think monthly isn’t enough to build momentum.)
- The small group or mastermind, for ideas and perspective. A small group that gives you feedback, support, and new angles. Perfect if you want community and clearer thinking. Like our workshops.
- The paid support, for speed and expertise. Hire someone with the experience and a track record who has done what you want to do. Best if you don’t want to waste any time. Like our consulting or agency.
The right people don’t just keep you accountable. They make the hard parts easier, the wins bigger, and the results inevitable.
