Congratulations, you’re shortlisted for the Novi Awards!

That’s a big deal. Of everyone nominated this year, you made the shortlist. So let’s make the most of it.

Women shortlisted in past years have used it to open doors. Here are eleven ways to do the same.

1. Tell your local press. Write a short press release about being shortlisted and send it to your local paper and radio station. Keep it tight: who you are, what you’re shortlisted for, a line from you, and the ceremony date. They love a good local story, and yours is one.

2. Ask your company to do the same. Don’t wait to be asked. Talk to your comms or marketing team and suggest a press release about you being shortlisted. Offer to draft it and give them a quote. It’s good news for the business too, because it shows they employ and back brilliant women. Ask them to tag Novi on LinkedIn.

3. Update your digital presence. Add your shortlist badge to your social media profiles and email signature. Your network will want to congratulate you, so let them.

4. Blog about your journey. Write a post about getting shortlisted and the path that got you here. Share the challenges, the wins and what you’ve learnt along the way. Personal stories land.

5. Announce it in your newsletter. If you or your company send one, tell your readers. It’s a great conversation starter with colleagues, clients and the wider business community. Share how it connects to what the business stands for and where it’s heading.

6. Celebrate with your inner circle. Take a moment with your friends and family. They’ve been your cheerleaders, so include them in this one.

7. Recognise your team. This wasn’t a solo effort. Thank the colleagues who’ve been in the trenches with you, and invite them to the ceremony [ticket link]. It lifts morale and strengthens the team.

8. Make the most of the networking. The ceremony is a brilliant place to meet people. Bring clients or prospective partners along. It’s a rare chance to connect in a celebratory atmosphere and show your leadership in action.

9. Connect with the other shortlisted women. Find them on social media and tag Novi so we can cheer you on. These are women who believe in women working together and being unstoppable together. The connections could turn into collaborations, mentorships or lifelong friendships.

10. Pay it forward. Use your platform to give back. Volunteer your time or expertise to a cause you care about. If you want somewhere to start, take a look at Novi Futures, our social mobility charity novifutures.org

11. Join the Novi community. If you’re not already a member, come and join us. There are speaking opportunities, executive coaching programmes and other trailblazers to learn from. What you’ve learnt as a shortlisted woman is valuable, so share it.

Congratulations again. We can’t wait to celebrate with you at The Londoner on 20 November.

Get tickets: www.thenoviawards.com/tickets

Next Great Read