By Erin Levine
Don’t miss your chance to demonstrate your commitment to ethics in the marketplace! Your BBB is already accepting entries for this year’s Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics. You can expect to see the official entry forms in the July "Your BBB Newsletter," or you can download it here. You can also request to have one sent directly to you by emailing Sammie Bass.
The BBB is a non-profit organization of businesses dedicated to promoting ethics and trust in the marketplace. The annual BBB Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics recognizes those businesses that have maintained that dedication. A panel of independent judges selects a company from each size category to receive this award, and those companies move on to the Council of Better Business Bureau’s International Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics competition.
Torch entries must be submitted on 8.5” X 11” paper, not to exceed a 2 inch three-ring binder, and must address the company’s management practices, community relations, industry reputation, and communications and marketing practices. The entry must also include a two page summary that explains why this company should be considered, the company’s position on integrity, relevant business and management practices, and should illustrate the company’s commitment to building trust in the marketplace.
2011 entries are due by 5pm on Wednesday, August 31, 2011, and the winners and finalists will be announced at a special awards luncheon on Tuesday, December 6, 2011. See more information on the 2011 ENTRY CRITERIA HERE.
Because the entry process is extensive, the BBB offers free, one-hour workshops designed to help entrants prepare their company's best entry. Entrants will be guided step-by-step through the entry process, offering ideas for how to complete the entry form and how to review the judging criteria. Please click here for information on 2011 workshops.
Your BBB also offers an annual scholarship program in conjunction with the Torch Awards. The BBB offers cash scholarships to five high school students who write the best 400 word essays on the importance of ethics and integrity in our community. For more information, please see our SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM.
Trust in the marketplace is the key to a company’s survival and growth. Committing to ethical behavior is fundamental to building relationships, and ultimately, building trust. Entering the 2011 Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics is a reflection of that commitment. The deadline is coming up soon, so don’t forego the opportunity to be associated with this prestigious award and honor.
