Entering the Independent Hotel Show Awards: Top tips from the judges

Each year, the Independent Hotel Show Awards,?in partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, celebrate the passion of independently spirited hoteliers who drive the hospitality sector forward and inspire their peers.

This year's awards, which will see the winners crowned on the evening of 16 October at the Independent Hotel Show, are comprised of two categories:

• Independent Hotel of the Year is presented to a hotel that has made a significant contribution to the independent hotel sector. This award recognises a hotel that embodies independent spirit, excellence, and innovation in creating exceptional guest experiences whilst pushing the boundaries expected of an independent hotel. Above all, the winner is an outstanding hotel that is committed to the development of their team, the success of their establishment, and the betterment of the industry as a whole.
• GM of the Future, in partnership with The Master Innholders, is presented to an individual who shows promise to fulfil the role of a Hotel GM (or equivalent) in the future. Individuals from an independently spirited hotel in the UK will be recognised for their personal and professional development in the hotel industry, their ‘extra mile’ attitude and commitment to becoming a future leader to inspire others.

We caught up with members of the judging panel for the Independent Hotel of the Year category to discover what they will be looking for in a winning entry this year.

Peter Hancock, Conference & Awards Host

"I would encourage anyone connected with a great hotel, be it independent or run with independent flair, to submit a nomination for this year's award. Size doesn't matter - but the quality of hospitality certainly does. This is a special form of recognition with just one winner.

Zoe Monk, Senior Editor, Boutique Hotelier

“Any stats or clear examples of how the hotel and your team have excelled are always great to include; don’t be afraid to really show off! Try to demonstrate ways in which the business excels commercially, how it is rooted in its community, provides fantastic reward initiatives for staff and goes above and beyond for guests. Hotels with the best independent spirit always shine through!”

Simon Numphud, Managing Director, AA Media

"The best advice I would offer is to ensure hotels write their own nomination as the passion, character and individuality always shines through. Ensure the narrative they submit is aligned to the criteria of the award together with clear examples to demonstrate how they meet the criteria as ultimately that’s what judges are making their decision on."

Sarah Duncan, Sustainability Consultant

"With my sustainability hat on, in addition to the standard criteria for operating an amazing independent hotel, I would love to see examples of going above and beyond in terms of environmental stewardship and social responsibility - looking after our planet, our communities and employees, as well as providing exceptional experiences for guests."

Kalindi, Juneja, CEO, PoB Hotels

"Hotels should highlight qualities that showcase their independent spirit. Demonstrating a commitment to responsible hospitality and innovation is also key but ultimately the property should be one guests love."

To find out more about the Independent Hotel Show Awards, and for information on entering or nominating, visit independenthotelshow.co.uk/awards.

The deadline for entries is Wednesday 21 June.