Q) What differentiates a good entry from an exceptional one?

A good entry will clearly set out achievements and demonstrate capability. An exceptional one (and the ones that really stand out ) go a step further by showing real impact. It is the difference between listing what someone has done and explaining what actually changed as a result. That might be for a client, a team, an organisation, or even the wider industry. Evidence of impact, and stories of people pushing boundaries or doing things differently, are what elevate an entry.

The entries that stay with me tend to have three things:

• Clarity: specific examples rather than general statements
• Impact: evidence of outcomes, not just activity
• Wider contribution: examples of how they’ve influenced others, not just their own success.

Authenticity and personality also make a real difference. The strongest applications feel genuine with a real sense of the person behind the entry, not just a polished list of achievements.

And finally, storytelling matters. The best entries take you on a journey - what was the challenge, what did they do, and why did it matter? Ultimately, the applications that stand out are the ones you remember afterwards - because they show not just what someone has achieved, but the difference they’ve made and the impact they’re likely to continue to have.

Those entries that make you think: I’d really like to meet or work with this person.

Q) Beyond individual success, how much weight do you give to those who are actively lifting others up or mentoring the next generation?

For me personally this is something close to my heart and this carries significant weight.

Individual achievement is important, but the people who really stand out are those who use their position, experience or influence to support others.

There are many ways that this can be done, mentoring, creating opportunities, or helping someone else progress are just some examples, but all of these things have a ripple effect. They don’t just benefit the one individual. They have a positive impact in the property industry as a whole.

It’s also a strong indicator of leadership and influence. You don’t need a formal title to demonstrate it. Often it is seen in the quieter, consistent actions: making introductions, sharing knowledge, championing others, or creating more inclusive environments.

I’m particularly interested in evidence of that wider impact. Not just what someone has achieved themselves, but how they’ve helped others to achieve. Ultimately, the individuals who are lifting others up are often the ones shaping the culture of the industry, and that is something I think is really important to recognise.

Q) What advice would you give to someone submitting an entry for the first time?

My main advice would be: don’t undersell yourself. I think a lot of people hesitate because it can feel uncomfortable putting yourself forward, or you assume you’re “not quite there yet.” In reality, many people are achieving far more than they give themselves credit for.

Try to reframe it - it is not about self-promotion; it is about taking a step back to reflect and recognise the impact of your work, which we don’t often make time to do.

If you feel awkward writing the submission, ask people for their views or feedback — or even ask them to help shape it. The people who champion you won’t hold back. When I put together my own submission in 2023, I was genuinely surprised by the things others said about me and my work — it gave me a completely different perspective.

Be clear and confident about what you’ve done and focus on specific examples. The strongest entries aren’t necessarily the most complex - they are the ones that clearly show impact. Even in small or everyday ways.

A few practical things I’d suggest:

• Be specific — answer the questions and avoid general statements and focus on real examples
• Show the outcome — what changed as a result of your work? Include figures where possible.
• Ask someone else to review it — a fresh perspective can make a big difference

Often the most compelling entries are the ones that are honest, thoughtful, and grounded in real examples.

If you’re thinking about submitting an entry, there’s probably a reason for that. Back yourself and give it a go — you never quite know where it might lead.