2008 will go down in Irish History as the year that we hailed the success of Padraig Harrington when he won two Majors back to back, popular opinion is that he is the greatest ever Irish Sports Person, I had the privilege of hearing Padraig speak about his attitude to his sport and life in general a couple of years ago not long before his first major success. He said he attributed his success to his attitude and his determination to keep doing the simple things well and belief in himself. That works obviously, that is also what these Business Excellence Awards are all about, finding the businesses that keep doing the simple things well, are determined to succeed and believe in themselves and their businesses.
I am in the happy position of having been an entrant at these awards, we have won sometimes and we have not won sometimes with our company and of course this year we are abstaining from entry. However, I will and have recommended entry to every business person I know, regardless of the nature or size, or age of your business. This was one of the most uplifting and rewarding experiences we as a company had shared, entering these awards.
The opportunity to commit to words what is special about your business gives you and your staff a chance to actually measure the journey you have made and the success you have achieved in overcoming obstacles and meeting challenges. That is a win in itself, the reflection on your own achievements brings its own reward, it makes you appreciate just how well you have done and it raises morale for all concerned.
The companies who sponsor these awards are not simply giving a financial donation to an event, they are saying, go on enter, showcase your business, celebrate your staff through their achievements, and tell us all what makes you special. These businesses know the importance of that opportunity and that is why they support this event so fantastically. We are very grateful to them for that support and cannot overstate how vital a part of this event they are.
When we as a company won we celebrated our success with gusto, when we did not win we celebrated every one else’s success instead and we determined to win the next time. Each time we learned something about ourselves and how we might be even better, each time we had a fantastic experience and a brilliant night out, each time we all made new friends. We are waiting to celebrate your company and your success, come on give us the chance to hear about you and what makes you special. Take it from someone who knows what you are about to experience, you will be really glad you entered. I cannot wait to welcome you on November 8th, fill in the entry form and begin a wonderful journey, make 2008 a special year for your company.
Patricia Rooney
P.S. Remember you do not have to be a member of the Chamber to enter these awards!
