As we continue to adjust to the pandemic and prepare for the new normal, the last thing which might be front of mind for many PR professionals is entering awards.

Over the last couple of months the team at Pagoda has focussed on crisis communications, strategic advice and counsel and planning for change communications. Everyone has been firefighting to keep things afloat.

But with the deadline to the PRCA DARE awards now extended to 15 May 2020, and with things starting to feel slightly more settled, now is a good time to consider what work might be worthy of an accolade.

Awards help to identify and celebrate best practice in our industry, but they also have a role to play in promoting the value of PR. This will be increasingly important in the post-pandemic world.

While we are unsure of what work might be like after lockdown, there will still be a role for PR. Communication will always be essential in helping to build trust and understanding, forming new relationships, protecting and enhancing reputation and raising public awareness to support organisational goals. Everything new will need to be promoted and crisis and reactive communications are needed more than ever.

As a judge for the 2020 PRCA DARE awards I am looking forward to reading the award entries for another region of the UK later this month. The awards strive to find and reward the very best campaigns and impeccable talent far and wide. This year they will also be testament to the positive attitude and resilience of communication professionals, making all the entries even more special.

Being shortlisted for an award is a wonderful achievement, and winning is even better. To be recognised by your peers for your hard work, creativity, inspiring ideas and tangible success is the best accolade for the work that you do. It is an amazing motivator for individuals and teams to keep aiming high and to shine a light on the value of the PR profession. So if you fancy being in with a chance this year, make sure you sign up and enter PRCA DARE awards.