Helpful Hints for Applicants
The following helpful hints were developed from feedback received from
previous judges:
- Show the judges your enthusiasm for your family-business in your application. It really makes a difference.
- Choose the right person in your family or business to complete the application.
- A typewritten application form is best. Use as much space as needed to complete the application, as additional sheets may be attached, or use an electronic template (see below).
- We recommend you provide a response to all questions, even if you are in an early stage or have not yet addressed a particular issue. Some judges have felt that an unanswered question is ambiguous—so if you’re still addressing an issue probed in one of the questions, or haven’t faced it yet, comment to that effect rather than leave it blank.
- The application form can be found online if you would like to use an electronic version. www.fambusiness.org If you download the application form, you may use as much room as you wish to answer questions.
- Don’t forget to submit two or three photos and a sample logo with your application. All applicants will be featured in a video presentation at the awards banquet. In your answers, you may insert information that supports and documents how your firm is mastering any family business concerns. But please understand that the judges only receive the completed application. Brochures and videotapes, and other promotional material might be used in the video presentation, but will not be part of the judging process.
- If the pool of applicants does not clearly fit the award categories, the committee will consider other criteria.
If you have any questions concerning the application please call Tom Juenemann, Director, Institute for Family-Owned Business at 780-5935 or e-mail at tomj@fambusiness.org. Mailing address is PO Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104. Thank you for participating in the Maine Family Business Awards.
