On July 9, 2024, we held an informative workshop designed to assist prospective applicants in navigating the application process for the Visit York Tourism Awards 2025.

Our esteemed judges shared invaluable insights and top tips, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to present their best applications. We extend our thanks to the judges for their contributions and dedication to promoting excellence in York's tourism and cultural sectors.

Download presentation, or re-watch the workshop below.

Key Takeaways for Potential Applicants

Application Form Guidance:

• Introductory Questions (30%): Make sure your answers are well-connected and avoid contradictions. Use this section to provide a comprehensive background of your business, including links to your website, active social media profiles, and TripAdvisor reviews. Ensure all links are functional and up-to-date.
• Top Qualities (20%, 500 words): Highlight what makes your business special and how you excel in your sector. Focus on unique aspects of your operation, such as exceptional customer service, distinctive features, or innovative practices.
• Recent Improvements (20%, 500 words): Describe significant changes you’ve made in the past year and explain why these improvements were necessary. Link these changes to guest feedback, strategic goals, or efforts to attract new customers.
• Results (15%, 300 words): Demonstrate your understanding of your business through clear facts and figures. Provide evidence of success, such as increased bookings, improved customer satisfaction scores, or successful marketing campaigns.
• Future Plans (15%, 300 words): Outline your future goals and plans for the coming year. Be specific about what you aim to achieve and why, using data and projections to support your plans. Ensure your future goals are connected to the improvements and results you’ve discussed earlier.

Top Tips for Applicants:

• Read the Questions Carefully: Ensure you understand what each question is asking and tailor your responses accordingly. Avoid duplicating information across different sections.
• Use Clear and Concise Language: Avoid jargon and keep your answers straightforward and easy to read. Judges appreciate bullet points and numbered lists to highlight key points.
• Provide Supporting Evidence: Back up your claims with concrete evidence, such as customer testimonials, TripAdvisor reviews, or performance metrics. Screenshots of relevant data can be included to strengthen your application.
• Proofread Your Application: Carefully check your application for any errors or inconsistencies. It’s helpful to have someone else review your responses to catch any mistakes you might have missed.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

• Leaving Applications to the Last Minute: Start your application early to ensure you have plenty of time to complete it thoroughly. Rushed applications often lack detail and coherence.
• Ignoring Eligibility Criteria: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for each category you enter. Tailor each application to fit the specific requirements of the category.
• Providing Incomplete Information: Ensure all sections of the application are fully completed and all links work correctly. Incomplete applications can negatively impact your chances of being shortlisted.

Judging Process Insights:

• Judges will mark each application individually and then discuss their assessments in a group meeting. Shortlisted applicants will undergo a mystery shop or interview process.
• Feedback from the mystery shop or interview will be used in the final decision-making process to determine the winners.