Reporting
February 01 2001
by Mike TuffreyFrom time to time at Community Affairs Briefing, we get asked to join judging panels for award schemes. Ten years' reporting on corporate activity gives us a certain perspective on what makes a good programme. The last month alone has brought requests from Business in the Community and the Institute of Public Policy Research. To be honest, the first reaction is usually "Oh no, not another *!&*@#* award scheme!". The more considered response is: will this help spread good practice? is judging based on rigorous and transparent criteria? do professional community engagement staff, trying hard to move their companies forward, deserve recognition and a way to show senior management the effort is worthwhile?
There remains a very real danger here of self-satisfied, mutual back-slapping - or at least creating that perception. And while praise is nice, honest criticism is often a greater spur for action, when based on a fair assessment of the facts. So please, not too many new 'didn't they do well' award schemes. And campaign pressure groups, how about some more wooden spoon awards?