Each year, as summer turns to fall, communication professionals across the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) community step into one of the most meaningful parts of our shared practice: awards judging season. I’m proud to once again serve as an evaluator for several chapters across Canada and the United States, including the IABC Canada Silver Leaf Awards, IABC Atlanta Golden Flames, and IABC South Carolina Palmetto Awards.
This work is always an honour. It’s also a reminder of the strength, creativity, and strategic discipline that define our profession.
Why Judging Matters
Awards programs do more than celebrate great work. They reinforce the standards that shape our discipline — planning, insight, measurable impact, and ethical practice. When communicators submit their work, they’re not just showcasing a tactic or a campaign. They’re demonstrating how communication drives business results, strengthens relationships, and builds trust.
Evaluating entries across chapters gives me a front-row seat to the evolving landscape of our field. I see how practitioners are adapting to new technologies, navigating complex organizational challenges, and elevating communication as a strategic function. The diversity of approaches — across industries, geographies, and experience levels — is inspiring.
Why I Love Being an Evaluator
One of the greatest joys of judging is the learning. Every entry teaches me something — a new approach, a fresh insight, a creative tactic, or a strategic nuance that sparks reflection. I love seeing what everyone is doing. I love learning from each and every award I review.
And part of that learning is reciprocal. As evaluators, we take the time to provide thoughtful, constructive comments designed to strengthen the learning of those who submit. Our goal is to help communicators refine their strategic thinking, sharpen their storytelling, and create even stronger entries next time. There is so much good work being done — truly excellent work — that is often not communicated clearly or fully within an entry. When we offer feedback, it’s because we want that great work to shine.
A Commitment to Professional Excellence
Serving as a judge is also a responsibility. Entrants invest time, vulnerability, and pride in their submissions. They trust evaluators to assess their work thoughtfully, fairly, and with a deep understanding of the IABC global standard. I take that responsibility seriously.
Every score, every comment, and every recommendation is an opportunity to help a communicator grow — whether they’re a seasoned leader or an emerging practitioner finding their voice.
Celebrating Our Community
What I love most about judging season is the reminder that our profession is built on community. Each entry reflects collaboration, creativity, and the desire to make a meaningful difference. And each awards program — from Silver Leaf to Golden Flames to Palmetto — showcases the unique strengths of its chapter and region.
To everyone who submitted work this year: thank you. Your commitment strengthens our profession. Your stories move us. And your impact is felt far beyond the awards stage.
I’m grateful to play a small part in recognizing and celebrating the excellence that defines IABC.
