Tips to Make Your Woman of the Year Nomination Shine
By Elisa OHalloran
Every year, Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) honors an exceptional woman with the Woman of the Year Award, a recognition of professional excellence, mentorship, and community impact. If you know a woman whose influence deserves the spotlight, a thoughtful nomination can make all the difference.
Here are some tips to help your nomination rise above the rest:
The Basics
Make sure the nomination form is fully completed. Ensure you get all the details to complete the application by collaborating with a friend, colleague or mentee who knows the nominee if needed.
Go Beyond the Resume
Resumes and job titles only tell part of the story. What should we know about the nominee that is not on their resume or LinkedIn account? For example, did they champion a new policy or project at their company or in their personal life.
Tell a Leadership Story
Highlight how the nominee served as a mentor. How has she mentored young professionals, through formal or informal guidance? Show how she has helped others grow, or step into leadership positions themselves.
Highlight Community Contributions
Community impact matters, so show her broader impact through church involvement, volunteering, pro bono work, or board positions. Share these stories, even if they are not tied to communications.
Stories Matters
The most memorable nominations include specific, personal stories. Share how the nominee has impacted the industry, their company, their community, or an individual. Use concrete examples with measurable outcomes rather than generic praise.
The Woman of the Year Award is about celebrating women who lead with purpose, elevate others, and leave a lasting mark on their profession and community. By going beyond the basics and sharing both facts and stories, you can help ensure your nominee’s influence is fully recognized.
Ready to submit? Visit the WWPR Women of the Year Award for details and deadlines. https://wwpr.org/events/woman-of-the-year-award-celebration/
