FAQs and Top Tips

FAQs

Got a query? Find your answer here. If you have any further questions, email chloe.ellison@mrs.org.uk

• Q. Will the deadline be extended?

No, our judging process begins almost immediately, so all entrants are expected to make the official deadline which is 4pm on the 27 May 2026.

• Are the entries confidential?

The entry process is confidential, and all judges are required to sign confidentiality agreements. Entries are stored on an online portal requiring a password. Judges have access to the portal for a limited time.

• My clients want reassurance that their supporting statements will not be published.

The entries are not published. If we wish to publish any information for an article or case study, we will contact the submitter to discuss any confidential and sensitive information.

• We won/were finalists last year, can we enter again?

Yes, but the judges will know if your entry hasn’t been updated so ensure you update your entry to refer to activities within the last 12 months.

• Can we enter more than one category?

Yes, but you should tailor your entry to address the criteria of each category specifically.

• How strict is the word limit?

Very. The submission system will cut you off at the limit for each section. If you submit more, the judges will not see it.

Equally, if you submit much less than the permitted word count, you probably haven’t said enough.

• Can all the supporting statements come from the same person?

No. The supporting statements should act like references for your main submission. You must provide the number stated on the entry form of the category you are entering but can provide up to three. They must be attributed to an individual (full name and job title/company); if you only have one primary contact who can make a statement, the judges will also accept statements from other clients who you have done similar work for or who can also speak in support of the services you provide.

• Can we provide additional supporting documentation?

Only for the Best Place to Work – Operations category. The rest of the categories are judged on the written submission alone so no additional material will be considered. This allows all entries to be judged equally and controls the time it takes to judge each entry.

• Can we mention multiple projects in our entry?

In most cases, the judges prefer one clear case study that addresses the criteria. With only 500 words per entry, it is recommended that entrants follow this approach where relevant.

• Can you read the entry and give feedback before we submit?

No

• If we win how do we order additional trophies?

One trophy per category is presented at the awards ceremony. Additional trophies cost £85 plus VAT.

• Cards on the table, how do we win?

Telling people, they haven’t been successful is not easy, especially when you know how close they’ve come. The standard of the entries we receive is generally excellent, so when the judges are choosing between them it sometimes comes down to the smallest things that set them apart. You only have a few words to tell your story – make every single one work for you: facts, figures, evidence.

Think of the Just a Minute rules: no hesitation, repetition or deviation. Good luck!

8 Top Tips to Win

Follow our judges’ top tips to have the best chance of displaying a prestigious Oppie on your shelf!

1. Choose your category carefully and address all the criteria in your entry, using clear, concise language.

2. If you worked with a partner or client who played a vital role in your submission, name them and do a joint entry.

3. Evidence matters! Back up every claim with evidence, use metrics to support your entry. If an award refers to any MRS Codes, standards, guidelines etc. include these in your entry.

4. Include three attributed statements from your clients, colleagues, or partners. The judges value the opinion of your customers and stakeholders.

5. Every word counts. With only 500 words to make an impression, make every sentence meaningful and check it adds value.

6. Why should your entry win? What is different and special about your entry and explain clearly.

7. Sense check. Ask a colleague to read your entry before submitting it. A fresh pair of eyes can spot any mistakes.

8. Get a head start and allow yourself plenty of time to craft a standout entry. Don’t leave it to the last minute and ensure you meet the deadline!