An award validates a client's hard work and sets their company apart from competitors. However, the real value comes from agencies properly leveraging the award to grow the client's brand.

Here are actionable tips for agencies to implement:

• Advise clients to announce the award through press releases and social media. Agencies should work with the clients to showcase the achievement across platforms.

• Guide clients to update their website, emails, and all marketing collateral with the award details and/or badge, reinforcing their elevated status.

• Next, agencies should recommend that clients connect the award to their brand messaging. Clients should explain why they won and how it furthers their mission and values.

• Suggest that clients share the news of their win in their company newsletter. Clients should add employee or customer testimonials showcasing their service. This tells a compelling story that builds authenticity.

• Advise clients to showcase their award in the lobby or conference room, where stakeholders and potential employees will see it.

• Additionally, agencies can guide clients to use the award to secure speaking opportunities, partnerships, and media features to capitalize on their elevated status.

• Finally, agencies should recommend that clients give back. Clients can consider sponsoring an emerging talent award or donate to their business' trade organizations, to establish their company as an industry leader.

Leveraging accolades takes strategy, but pays dividends. Agencies that can guide their clients to use these tips to turn awards into brand growth, cementing their hard-earned distinction, provide immense value.