Awards Entry Process

Is there a cost to enter?

A: Yes, the entry fee is £55 per category entered.

How do I enter?

A: Entering is simple:

1. Sign up on our online platform.
2. Complete the application form.
3. Upload your video.
4. Pay the entry fee for each submission.

You will receive an on-screen confirmation and an email once your submission is received. If you have entered before, you can log in with your existing details and follow the same process.

Can I get a refund?

A: Unfortunately, entry fees are non-refundable. Once an application is submitted, it is processed as part of the judging process, and we are unable to issue refunds, even if you’re unable to attend or complete a submission requirement. If you have any concerns, feel free to reach out to our team, we’re happy to help.

Why is there an entry fee?

A: The £55 entry fee helps maintain the high standards of the Speaker Awards, ensuring we recognise speakers who are actively working at a professional level. While some industry awards charge £250 or more, this remains a modest investment for those serious about their craft. Judges are respected industry experts who volunteer their time to uphold the integrity of the awards.

What is the entry deadline?

A: Entries close at 23:59 on the 20th of April 2025.

Awards Entry Criteria

Who can enter?

A: The awards are open to any professional speaker who meets the application criteria for their chosen category.

Does the Speaker Awards accommodate different needs?

A: Absolutely. The Speaker Awards is about recognising exceptional speakers, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance. We believe great speakers should reflect the diversity of the audiences they serve, and we welcome entrants from all walks of life.

If you have specific needs or require adjustments to participate fully, just let us know, we’re committed to making the awards as accessible and inclusive as possible.

Are the awards only for UK-based speakers?

A: The awards are open to all speakers, no matter where you’re based! As long as you’re happy to travel for the ceremony if shortlisted, you’re welcome to enter.

Can past winners enter again?

A: Yes, past winners can enter again, but there are conditions. You must wait at least one year before reapplying to the same category you previously won. However, you can enter a different category or reapply to a category where you were previously shortlisted.

For full eligibility details, please refer to the entry terms and conditions.

Can I nominate someone else for an award?

A: There is no nomination process for these awards, but you can submit an application on behalf of another speaker. If doing so, you must:

* Pay the entry fee.
* Ensure they meet the eligibility criteria.
* Provide all required details, including video footage.
* Inform them of the submission, as shortlisted speakers are expected to attend the awards ceremony.

As long as these conditions are met, you’re welcome to apply on someone else’s behalf.

Your Application

Can I enter more than one category?

A: Yes, you can enter up to two categories, but each requires a separate application, submission, and payment. As criteria vary, be sure to tailor each nomination accordingly.

Are there specific guidelines for my video?

A: Yes! Please submit high-quality, professional video footage, as judges may stop watching after 10 seconds if it doesn’t meet the standard. Your video is a key part of your application, so make sure it showcases you at your best and follows the required format for your category.

Videos should be submitted in MP4 or MPEG format. If needed, you can use online tools to convert your video to the correct format.

Need help with editing? Our partner, Shatter Media, offers special support for applicants. Contact [email protected] for details.

Will I receive feedback on my entry?

A: Due to the high volume of entries, we are unable to provide individual feedback.

Can I submit my video at a later date?

A: Videos submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.

What support is available?

A: We’re happy to help with technical issues or general questions. That said, we can’t assist with completing your application, but we’re cheering you on from the sidelines! If you need us, just email [email protected].

How long should my video be?

A: Videos should be up to 5 minutes long, except for the TEDx Speaker category, which allows up to 10 minutes. If your video is longer, judges may only watch the first five minutes due to the volume of applications.

To give yourself the best chance, select or edit a five-minute segment that stands on its own and best showcases your skills. Refer to the judging criteria to help choose the most relevant section to submit.

All video entries must be between January 2022 to April 2025. Need editing support? Contact [email protected].

Is my submission confidential?

A: Yes. All awards submissions are treated as highly confidential. Only the Speaker Awards team and the judging panel will view them.

The Judges & Judging Criteria

How are judges selected?

A: Our judges are carefully selected seasoned industry experts, including speaker bureaus, agents, and professionals with at least five years of experience booking, coaching, or working with speakers. Each judge signs a Code of Conduct and declares any conflicts of interest upfront to ensure a fair and transparent judging process.

What happens after I submit, and how are winners chosen?

A: After applications close, judging will kick into full flow:

Judging Round 1

Judges independently and anonymously score all submissions in their category using strict judging criteria.
Each judge selects applicants to shortlist for the next round.
The shortlist is reviewed internally to ensure consistency, removing any anomalies or adjusting for category limits.

The final shortlist will be announced during a live online event on 9th May 2025.

Judging Round 2

Judges meet to collectively decide the category winner and two highly commended recipients.

Winners are announced at the awards ceremony.

What if my category has too few entries?

A: The judges will decide whether to proceed if a category doesn’t receive enough entries. If any changes affect your submission, we’ll let you know.

Awards Ceremony

Is my attendance at the Awards Ceremony mandatory?

A: If you’re shortlisted, you’re expected to attend the awards ceremony, as outlined in our terms and conditions. Please check the date carefully before submitting your application. If you are unable to attend in person, you may send a representative to collect your award on your behalf, just let us know in advance who will be attending in your place.

What will I receive if I win?

A: You will receive a physical award at the ceremony and we will also promote the winners on our social media platforms after the event.

Who will be at the awards?

A: Speaker Beaurus, agents, industry experts, shortlisted speakers, the judges, organisers, sponsors and their guests.

Promotion & Media Coverage

Can I sponsor the Speaker Awards?

A: Yes, we offer sponsorship opportunities for both the Speaker Summit and the Awards. However, sponsors cannot enter the awards.If you're interested in exploring sponsorship, get in touch at [email protected].

Will winners and shortlisted speakers get media coverage?

A: We actively share and celebrate winners and shortlisted speakers across our network, including our website, social media, and partner channels. After the awards, we’ll also issue a press release to the media, though coverage is not guaranteed.

To help shortlisted speakers maximise their visibility, our media partner will host a workshop on how to leverage their achievement for greater exposure.

Can I use the Speaker Awards logo if I’m shortlisted or win?

A: Yes - Shortlisted speakers and winners receive official digital assets, including a badge to showcase their achievement. While you’re welcome to use the Speaker Awards logo for promotion, we recommend using the provided assets for a polished, professional look.

Will I get photos from the event for promotion?

A: Yes - We provide shortlisted speakers and winners with professional event photos taken on the night. While winners receive photos of their award moment, we can’t guarantee individual photos for all shortlisted speakers.

How can I maximise the benefits of being shortlisted?

A: Being shortlisted is a powerful credibility boost, here’s how to make the most of it:

* Stand out to bookers - Use this recognition in your speaker proposals, LinkedIn bio, and keynote pitches to strengthen your authority.

* Share strategically - Beyond social media, add it to your press kit, speaker one-sheet, website, and email signature for lasting visibility. Tag @speakerawards when posting online.

* Use for media opportunities - Pitch your story to industry publications, podcasts, and local media. Awards make a great news hook.

* Make meaningful connections - The awards night is full of bureaus, bookers, and top speakers. Be intentional about who you meet.

* Get more from your recognition – Shortlisted speakers will be invited to join our PR workshop to learn how to leverage this achievement for bigger opportunities.

How can winning help my speaking business?

A: Winning or even being shortlisted for a Speaker Award can be a powerful credibility boost, opening doors in the industry. While results vary, past winners have:

* Increased their speaking fees
* Secured representation with bureaus and agents
* Gained more interest from corporate bookers and event organisers
* Expanded into new speaking markets

The real impact depends on how you use this recognition. It’s a valuable asset, but like any opportunity, it works best when you leverage it strategically.

FREQUENTLY

ASKED QUESTIONS

Awards Entry Process

Awards Entry Criteria

Your Application

The Judges & Judging Criteria

Awards Ceremony

Promotion & Media Coverage

FREQUENTLY

ASKED QUESTIONS

Awards Entry Process

Awards Entry Criteria

Your Application

The Judges & Judging Criteria

Awards Ceremony

Promotion & Media Coverage

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