Award events are starting to take place once again, and if you’ve been nominated for an award, you are undoubtedly excited about the possibility of winning. But winning is not the end of the journey – it is only the beginning.

As an administrative professional, you have a unique opportunity to use your nomination as a springboard for career development. Whether it's taking on new challenges or advancing your skills through training and professional development opportunities, there are many ways to capitalize on the recognition that comes with being not just an award winner but an award nominee.

Here are three ways to make the most of your moment in the spotlight:

1.         Use it as motivation to take your career to the next level.

No matter the outcome on awards night, remember that you are already a winner. You have been nominated for an award, which is a testament to your hard work and dedication. Use this as motivation to keep striving for excellence in your career.

2.         Use it as a chance to reflect on your accomplishments and set new goals.

Take some time to reflect on what you have achieved and set new goals for yourself. If you haven't yet, start a career achievement journal where recording your small wins will amount to more significant goal achievement.

3.         Use it as an opportunity to grow your professional network and take advantage of new connections.

Leverage the recognition from your award nomination (or win) to connect with other professionals in your field. Attend industry events, request informational interviews, or join professional organizations. The more you put yourself out there, the more opportunities will come your way.

4.         Use it as an opportunity to inspire others.

When you become an award nominee or winner, you become a role model for others. Use your platform to inspire others, whether it's through social media, speaking engagements, or writing articles.

5.         Use it as a chance to give back.

When you win an award, it's not just about you. It's also an opportunity to give back to the office professional and executive support community. You can do this by sharing your knowledge and experience with others.

6.         Use it as a platform to showcase your skills and capabilities.

Don't let your award nomination or win be the final word on your value as an administrative professional. Continue working hard and expanding your skill set so that you can be an even more valuable asset to your organization.

7.         Use your award nomination or win as a springboard to seek out new opportunities.

Even if you are perfectly content in your current position, don't be afraid to use your award win or nomination as a way to explore other options. You never know what might be out there waiting for you.

8.         Use it as a chance to celebrate your success.

At the end of the day, an award nomination or win is something to be celebrated. Whether you treat yourself to a small reward or share the good news with your friends and family, take some time to savour your accomplishment.

No matter the outcome on awards night, remember that you are already a winner simply by being nominated. Don’t take this unique honour for granted. Celebrate your achievements and use them to motivate you to pursue bigger and better opportunities. You have the potential to do great things - so go out there and make it happen!

Whether you want to advance within your current organization or explore new opportunities elsewhere, remember that success ultimately comes down to hard work and perseverance.

And if you win … With the right mindset and focus, you can use your award win as a springboard for achieving even more extraordinary professional accomplishments. Best of luck!

How have you leveraged your award nomination or win? What motivated you to do something that you may not have done were you not nominated? Comment below.

If you're looking for professional development options, check out our e-learning menu for affordable, accessible short courses, mentoring and training programs tailored for administrative support professionals.