Thinking of entering the REC Awards 2025? Whether you’re submitting a written application, video, or audio, this is your opportunity to shine a light on the hard work, innovation, and impact you or your team have delivered over the last year.

We know that 2024 has been a demanding year for the industry. That’s why our judges will be looking not just for big wins, but also for stories of adaptability, resilience, and steady progress in a challenging market. Whether your success is a new initiative, a turnaround story, or exceptional consistency, tell us about it in a clear, compelling way.

Each entry category has its own set of questions to be answered. Be sure to read them carefully and shape your submission around them. A strong entry is more than a list of achievements - it’s a clear story that ties back to the category goals and shows measurable impact.

Here’s what great entries tend to include:

• A clear narrative – What was the challenge or opportunity? What action did you take? What changed as a result?
• Evidence of impact – Data, testimonials, or performance results that back up your claims. Judges want to see outcomes, not just effort.
• Relevance to the category – Tailor your entry to the specific criteria. A great submission answers the questions directly.
• Authenticity – Don’t be afraid to talk about setbacks or obstacles. Showing how you overcame them can be just as powerful as the final result.
• Clarity and focus – Keep answers focused and well structured. Avoid jargon or generalised statements - specifics make entries memorable.

If you’re submitting a video or an audio file, speak naturally, but stay concise. We recommend drafting a script or talking points in advance to ensure you hit all the key points. Make it engaging, but focused - just like you would in a pitch or client presentation.

For individual and team categories:

• Highlight personal contributions or team collaboration
• Explain what makes your approach different or effective
• Demonstrate impact through feedback or outcomes

For company and business categories:

• Show how your processes or initiatives have moved the dial - whether that’s with clients, candidates, or your own people
• Include clear evidence of performance or innovation
• Talk about the bigger picture - how your work supports standards, sustainability, or industry progression

Final tips:

• Don’t leave it to the last minute - give yourself time to refine your entry
• Avoid naming individuals or companies in your submission (judging is anonymous)
• Review your application carefully before submitting
• Ask a colleague to sense-check it - it’s easy to miss things when you're close to the work
• Remember: this is your platform to be recognised as one of the industry’s best. Whether your strength is people, process, innovation, or resilience - tell your story in a way that brings your achievements to life.
• You’ve got something to be proud of. Now’s the time to show it!