This month, the Local Image 2011 team wants you to really explore some of the categories you can enter. Most people think of the big stuff – promotional/marketing campaigns, special events, internal campaigns, etc. But you may not realize that you can also enter a poster or calendar, news release, written speech, specialty item, electronic communications (including blogs, e-mail, newsletters and surveys), brochure, website or even a presentation.

We point this out because the feedback from many people on why they don’t enter is because the process is difficult and time-consuming…and yes, it can be challenging for large-scale projects. But you can also break larger projects up into small, more manageable pieces. Since most of these projects are smaller in scope, entering your work in the “tools of the trade” categories B and C may be less overwhelming, especially to someone who has never submitted anything. This may end up being your formula for success!

So, think about all the categories when looking over your project list and see what sparks your imagination!

Note to students Students can enter a written speech, news release, position paper or computer-generated communication like a website or PowerPoint. You can also enter any other category in the other professional divisions if you have something that doesn’t fit in the student division. Just think how great it would be to tell future interviewers that part of your body of work won an award at a local, or possibly state level. That would definitely set you apart from the crowd and help jump-start your career!

“Action is the foundational key to all success.” – Pablo Picasso